Challenges associated with marketing bamboo and rattan products in Ghana

Abstract

In Ghana, bamboo and rattan are the two largest non-timber forest products. The study sought to assess the marketing challenges associated with marketing bamboo and rattan products in Ghana. The study area is focused on all the regions in Ghana. Descriptive research design is used to gather data from two hundred customers of bamboo and rattan products out of 1,000 target population throughout the country. The study revealed various items made from bamboo and rattan on the market. It also revealed that manufacturers of bamboo and rattan products do not design products to meet needs of customers and do not offer after sale services and selling at very high prices, among others. The study further revealed that the first and second major marketing challenges confronting manufacturers of bamboo and rattan products in Ghana are the lack of promotion and quality of their products respectively. Other challenges included the presence of competitors and poor product awareness. The study therefore recommended that the local media should also be sensitized by the national bodies such as the Ministries of Information and Communication, and Media Commission to spearhead the regular promotion and marketing of bamboo and rattan products. Also, the District Assembly should create the enabling environment to improve upon activities of the bamboo and rattan industry.