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By Samuel Asamoah
Workers of the Akosombo Textiles Limited (ATL) have appealed to President John Dramani Mahama and relevant government authorities to expedite ongoing discussions with a Hong Kong-based Chinese investor interested in taking over the management of the struggling textile company.
According to the local Union Chairman Stephen Nkansah, the investor—who first visited the company between 2019 and 2020—has presented a comprehensive plan to revive ATL and restore its long-lost industrial glory.
Once a household name in Ghana’s textile industry, ATL was famed for producing the iconic ABC Wax fabric, which gained international recognition across Africa, Europe, and America. However, workers lament that management has halted production of the flagship fabric, leaving the market open to competitors.
“The demand for ABC Wax remains high, but its production has not been prioritized. This has weakened ATL’s position both locally and internationally,” he stated.
Research and internal assessments suggest that a revived ATL could significantly boost employment within the Asuogyaman, Yilo Krobo, Manya Krobo, and North Tongu districts. The company has the capacity to employ more than 2,000 additional workers, providing direct jobs and stimulating local economic activity.
Workers further noted that a rejuvenated ATL could play a crucial role in supporting government initiatives such as the “Friday Wear” campaign, Free Senior High School uniforms, and the production of national event fabrics, funeral prints, and ceremonial textiles.
“ATL has the capacity to meet national textile needs and reduce Ghana’s dependence on imports,” said Joseph Otu Botwe Local Union Secretary ATL
The Hong Kong investor, according to the workers, has proposed measures to improve employee welfare, including prompt salary payments, regular SSNIT and pension contributions, leave allowances, long-service awards, and annual bonuses. Many staff members have reportedly endured salary delays for over five months.
“It has been a very difficult period for us and our families. We are hopeful that the investor’s intervention will restore dignity to the workforce,” the workers appealed.
With Ghana’s persistent youth unemployment and the need to boost local manufacturing, the workers believe ATL’s revival could serve as a strategic industrial stimulus—creating jobs, promoting made-in-Ghana products, and enhancing economic resilience.
They therefore urged government to fast-track negotiations and grant approval for the investor to assume management and reposition ATL as a leading force in Ghana’s textile sector.
