Usually in the lead-up to Independence Day, African prints, fugu, traditional beads and other customary outfits are in high demand as Ghanaians prepare to mark the day in cultural style.
This year, however, the jerseys, associated with the Ghana national football team, are being widely patronised in shops and online, with some vendors reporting increased demand.
In the past week, The Mirror has observed that vendors on social media — particularly on TikTok — are cashing in on the growing demand for the jerseys.
Prices range from GH¢50 to GH¢600, depending on the design, authenticity and type of material used. While some are standard replica jerseys, others are premium versions made with higher-quality fabric, attracting different categories of buyers.
Most vendors who deal in clothes and fashion accessories have added the jerseys to their wares, with some reporting brisk sales during live sessions.
On TikTok Live, sellers display different designs, take orders in real time and sometimes sell hundreds of pieces within a single session.
Markets
At Kaneshie, Tudu and CMB markets, all in Accra, the jerseys were some of the most common items displayed by vendors.
The prices at these markets appear cheaper as customers can bargain for the different designs.
A vendor at Tudu in Accra, Mr Yaw Nimako, said he had to restock several times this week as more people showed interest.
“So if you go to TikTok now, this is in high demand, and most of them buy from us and
resell. Even here, we are able to make good sales from individuals who come here,” he said.
While the jersey vendors cash in, some vendors of African prints and traditional accessories at the Makola Market said sales of these traditional items have slowed this year.
According to them, the Ghana jerseys have taken centre stage, with more customers opting for the sporty look.
“We had stocked up on African prints and accessories in anticipation of the March 6 and Ghana Month celebrations, but patronage has not been as brisk as in previous years.
“A few parents come here to buy fabrics for their wards for school activities. We are hoping that our sales will pick up later in the month,” Maa Yaa Adu Poku, a vendor, told this reporter.
World Cup effect
Patronising the jerseys also appears to be a way for many people to cut down on costs, as they plan to wear the same outfits again when Ghana competes at the upcoming FIFA World Cup later this year.
“So the jerseys are fashionable and easy to wear. I bought mine at GH¢300, and I’m happy I can use it throughout Ghana Month, during the World Cup and even when I travel out of Ghana. Some of our traditional outfits limit movements, but this is an easy wear, ” Ms Audrey Clottey told The Mirror.
A social media user who purchased a GH¢600 jersey said the decision was intentional.
“Ghana is so peaceful to me. Spending GH¢600 to wrap myself in my country’s colours is something I will do over and over again,” she said, adding that quality was also important to her choice.
Prices of official Ghana Jerseys
When this reporter checked the prices of the original Ghana national football team home, away and pre-match jerseys for the World Cup on Puma’s online shop, they ranged between approximately 60 and 95 euros.
Branded T-shirts and souvenirs
Another group of people cashing in this season are vendors of customised T-shirts and souvenirs.
These vendors also have a variety of items designed in the national colours.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh