Female basket weavers at Sumbrugu Tongbiisi in the Bolgatanga Municipality are hopeful of expanding their businesses and increasing their earnings thanks to support they have received from a native of the area Benjamin Aduko Atadita.
Known for his philanthropic activities, Benjamin Atadita has made notable contributions to the development of the area including singlehandedly renovating a health facility.
His latest donation of straw to the Asongtarima group of basket weavers at Tongbiisi in the Azorebiisi Electoral is aimed at empowering women and helping to eradicate poverty in the community.
The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Roland Atanga Ayoo, who made the donation on his behalf, said the gesture is in line with government’s poverty eradication policies.
“The women are actively into basket weaving and so knowing very well that what assist them in the work is the straw, he decided to buy the material for them. It’s just a way of trying to assist them make money,” the MCE explained.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Esther Adongo, while expressing gratitude to the donor, said the support was timely.
She stated that some of the group members have been struggling lately to stay in business due to the rising cost of straw, the material of which baskets are made, and is hopefully that the support will alleviate their present situation and boost their trade.
“We thank him a lot. We use the straw has donated to us to weave baskets and get money and support our family,” she said. “ Most of us find it difficult to buy the straw. We have a lot of expenses at home so getting money for the business isn’t easy”
