The Effect of Imported Used-Western Woodcraft on the Woodcraft Industry in the Sekondi-Takoradi (Published)
The paper intended to examine the effect of the importation of used-Western woodcraft in Sekondi-Takoradi and their ramification on the woodcraft industry. It sought to enquire into the effect that these imported used-Western woodcraft have on hands-on skills, training and employment of the youth in Sekondi-Takoradi. It also enquired into the recent and widespread importation of used woodcrafts from the Western world as against the brand new woodcrafts from Sekondi-Takoradi. The analytical method was adopted to analyze the data using purposive sampling technique. The primary information was acquired through interview, interaction, observation and field survey while secondary information was obtained from literary sources. The results showed that, Woodcraft producers in the enclave lacked the state-of-the-art machinery and technological knowhow to meet the International Standard Order (ISO) and the growing western taste of their prospective patrons or buyers.The paper concludes that Sekondi-Takoradi is flooded with imported used-Western woodcrafts that are available, stylish and relatively affordable, as compared to the locally made ones. Also, the woodcraft producers in Sekondi-Takoradi have the onerous task to compete with their Western counterparts.
Keywords: indigenous woodcraft, used- woodcraft, western woodcraft, woodcraft