Wood Carvers Cry Out Over High Timber Costs, Scarcity; Appeal for Government Support

Wood carvers in Kumasi have expressed concern over the soaring cost and scarcity of timber, warning that the situation is threatening the survival of their businesses and the future of the centuries-old craft.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Lawson News reporter Samuel Sarkodie at his workshop in Ashtown, near the Manhyia Palace, renowned wood carver Osei Kwadwo Bonsu said the continuous rise in timber prices has made it increasingly difficult for artisans to remain in business.

According to Mr. Bonsu, the challenge is not only the high cost of timber but also the difficulty of obtaining quality wood suitable for carving.

He explained that artisans often spend days searching for suitable timber before they can begin production, resulting in delays and increased operating costs.

Mr. Bonsu noted that the rising cost of raw materials has forced many wood carvers to increase the prices of their products, leading to reduced patronage and shrinking profit margins.

He appealed to the government to introduce support programmes for local wood carvers, including easier access to affordable timber and financial assistance to help them expand their businesses.

According to him, such support would enable artisans to increase production, create more employment opportunities, and train more apprentices, thereby preserving Ghana’s rich cultural heritage while contributing to economic growth.

Mr. Bonsu expressed optimism that, with the right intervention, Ghana’s wood carving industry would continue to thrive and remain a significant source of livelihood for many families.

By: Samuel Sarkodie