The Chief Executive of Rural Water Development Programme (RWDP-GH) and Founder of the Northern College of Science and Technology, Dr. Nathaniel Adams Jr., has called for the establishment of a smock market in Yendi.

He noted that no such market exists in the five regions of the north and challenged the Yendi Youth Parliament to take up the initiative.

"I want to challenge this Parliament with the support of the traditional leaders as one of your goals, take it up and consider the setting up of the Yendi smoke market and the Yendi Smoke village."

Speaking as the guest speaker at the inauguration of the Yendi Parliament over the weekend, he emphasised the significance of smocks as official traditional wear for Ghanaian men.

"He said, "Today, the smock is recognised as the official traditional attire for Ghanaian men—our Presidents, Vice Presidents, and any Ghanaian attending an event with a traditional theme typically appear on TV wearing a smock."

Highlighting the growing recognition of smocks across the country, Dr Adams stressed the need for a one-stop center where people can access different types of smocks.

He said that Chinese businesses are printing Ghanaian fabrics but fortunately, they have not ventured into the smock area, urging the people of Yendi to seize this opportunity.

The establishment of the smock market, he said, would create jobs for the youth, reduce migration to southern Ghana for menial jobs, and provide an additional income stream for the youth, boosting the economy of the area.

Dr Adams tasked the youth to collaborate with traditional authorities, the assembly, and other stakeholders to bring the project to fruition.

To kick-start the initiative, he donated GH₵20,000 to support the commencement of the work.

The Yendi Municipal Coordinator, Abdul Razak Yakah, praised the SOCO project and the National Youth Authority for establishing the Yendi Youth Parliament.

He stated that the initiative would groom the youth for responsible roles, contributing to both community and national development.

Mr. Razak emphasised that President John Mahama's administration agenda prioritises youth empowerment, enabling them to drive development and promote entrepreneurship.

He underscored that the Youth Parliament is a platform for meaningful action, not just a gathering. A citation was presented to Dr Nathaniel Adams Jr. for his commendation in supporting the youth of the area.