Ghana - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Project SICI aims to revive, refine and revitalize the production and use of clay products using sustainable innovations to revamp the deep seated culture and identity of the Upper East Region and it's environs.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

The Upper East was once flooded with distinctive wide-mouthed, round-bottomed clay pots across the region. These vessels held deep cultural symbolism, but as cheaper, mass-produced alternatives flooded the market, many pottery workshops shuttered and the craft risked being lost. This project seeks to revive this heritage art form, empower local potter's collectives, and support master artisans to pass down techniques to new apprentices. The initiative isn't just concerned with preservation and exploring innovative ways to adapt traditional pottery skills to address modern needs. This innovation leverages the natural evaporative cooling properties of unglazed clay. When filled with water and placed in a well-ventilated area, the porous earthenware allows slow evaporation, creating a cooling effect that can lower water temperature by several degrees. This provides an affordable, sustainable way for rural households to chill drinking water without electricity.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

The project is centered around the pressing issue of preserving the rich cultural heritage and livelihood opportunities associated with traditional clay pottery production in the Upper East Region. This ancient craft, deeply rooted in local identity, is at risk of being lost as younger generations move away from the pottery trade. This challenge jeopardizes the continuation of a centuries-old cultural legacy that is intrinsically linked to the region's identity. Furthermore, the decline of the pottery trade poses significant risks to the livelihoods and economic opportunities of marginalized rural communities in the Upper East Region, where pottery-making has long been a crucial source of income and employment. Addressing this multifaceted problem of cultural preservation and livelihood support is at the core of this project. Tackling the erosion of this traditional craft is essential to safeguarding the region's heritage and ensuring sustainable economic opportunities for its people.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

1. Cultural Preservation - The project supports the continuation of centuries-old pottery tradition, deeply rooted in the local identity of the Upper East Region. Reviving the unique artistry and techniques of the pottery-making process, it helps preserve this vital aspect of the region's cultural legacy for future generations. 2. Livelihood Opportunities - The project reinvigorates the local pottery value chain, providing crucial income-generating activities and empowering marginalized rural communities where economic options are limited. By reviving sustainable livelihoods for pottery artisans and their families, the project creates a positive impact at the community level. 3. Environmental Sustainability - Transitioning to traditional, low-impact clay pottery production, the project promotes more environmentally friendly consumer choices. Life cycle assessments have shown that clay-based products have a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to mass-produced alternatives

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

The traditional clay pottery products that will be made as a result of this project are primarily targeted at the local communities and consumers within the Upper East Region and its environs. This includes individual buyers- households, shops, schools, and any other places that use mechanical appliances for chilling water- as well as regional businesses, retailers, and institutions that value and demand these culturally significant, handmade goods. By revitalizing the pottery trade and value chain, the project aims to cater to the needs and preferences of these local stakeholders who have a deep appreciation for the region's rich cultural heritage.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-05-10

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

1

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

0

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Frank Adugbire Aperige is a hard-working young man who never gives up on his goals and aspirations. He is currently a final-year Architecture student at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). He is a diligent man who is rooted in tradition, honest, and very reliable in all endeavors. He has skills in design and building innovation and is also well-experienced in the weaving of local straw baskets. His skill set and experiences are paramount are the realization of this project.

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-adugbire-45478b218/, https://www.facebook.com/akuruko.akuruko

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

d) Primary commodities (food, drink, household and personal products)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

5

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

5

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

5

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

5

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

4

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

6

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

5

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

5

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

5

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

6

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

6

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

6

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

6

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

6

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

6

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

5

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

5

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

5

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

5

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

3

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

3

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

5

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

6

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

6

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

5

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.08 Justification

These are the main reasons; 1. The traditional clay pottery products from this region have a deep-rooted cultural significance and have been a part of the local heritage for generations. 2. The project seeks to build upon the existing pottery-making techniques and designs, incorporating modern aesthetics and functionalities to enhance the appeal and usability of the products. 3. The project seeks to diversify the pottery product offerings, creating a range of items that cater to different customer segments, price points, and usage scenarios. 4. Incorporating innovative materials, colors, or finishing techniques can breathe new life into classic pottery forms, making them appealing to both traditional and younger, trendier customers.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

The main potential competitors for this project may include; 1. The traditional pottery makers within the region who have been practicing the craft for generations. 2. Factory-made ceramic products, including tableware, home decor, and utility items, that are imported or produced elsewhere in Ghana. 3. Consumers may consider alternative materials like plastic, metal, or glass for certain home and utility needs. The key factors that can help this project stand out from these competitors are: 1. Authenticity and cultural preservation 2. Sustainability and environmental responsibility 3. Community empowerment and economic development 4. Design innovation and product diversification 5. Digital and e-commerce integration

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

not at the moment