Ghana traders in second-hand clothing protest against "defamatory claims"

Hundreds of dealers and traders in the second-hand clothing industry in Accra, Ghana entered the streets Thursday to protest against what they call unbalanced and false narratives about the industry. In the crosshairs of the protesters' anger is the OR Foundation, an organization that has for several years claimed that the second-hand industry is exacerbating the waste problems in Ghana.

The Ghana Used Clothing Dealers Association issued a statement in connection with the event, where they explained their reasons for the protest:

The OR Foundation has consistently portrayed the used clothing trade in a negative light - spreading false, unbalanced, and damaging narratives that seek to discredit our work and tarnish the image of Ghana internationally. These reports have painted an inaccurate picture of our operations, ignoring the significant role our industry plays in job creation, poverty reduction, and sustainable livelihoods for thousands of Ghanaians. 

We find these actions not only disrespectful to our trade, but also harmful to the dignity and reputation of the Ghanaian people. The OR Foundation’s continuous misrepresentation of the Kantamanto market, in particular, is unacceptable and must stop. 

During the protest, the participants held up images published by the OR Foundation, they believe are fake and not reflecting reality.

Several other news platforms have notised the protest and reported about it:

Texfash: "Misinformation campaign condemned"

Ecotextile: "Protest against campaign claims"

Joyonline: "Textile waste claims anger dealers"

Here you can read more about the story that form the basis of today´s demonstration.