The Chairman of the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association, Mr. Henry Okyere, has revealed plans to attract investors to support the local production of oil filters in Ghana.
According to him, the initiative is aimed at boosting the growth and sustainability of the country’s spare parts industry.
Speaking at the West African Automotive Show (WAAS) in Nigeria, an annual exhibition for automotive industry stakeholders, Mr. Okyere stated that the association is making significant strides in the auto parts space and sees strong potential to build a full value chain, from manufacturing to distribution.
He noted that WAAS provides a valuable platform to engage potential partners, including manufacturers and distributors, who can contribute to the development of Ghana’s spare parts sector.
He revealed that the association has already established contacts with investors willing to invest in Ghana’s automotive industry.
“Our aim is to change the narrative,” he said. “We want to ensure that, in our time, Ghana produces oil filters locally, shifting from import dependency to local production.”
He believes that this move will not only reduce reliance on imports but also help stabilize the cedi against the dollar.
Mr. Okyere also highlighted the association’s success in connecting with shaft and crank sellers offering products at more affordable prices, which he described as a step toward making the industry more competitive and accessible.
He called on the government to provide support through favorable policies, infrastructure development, and funding to accelerate the sector’s growth and maximize its contribution to the national economy.
He further hinted at plans to bring the WAAS exhibition to Ghana within the next two years, stating that such a move would give Ghanaians the opportunity to benefit not just as consumers, but also as traders and industrial players.
Meanwhile, Mr. Abaase Kwabena, Chairman of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce, Kumasi Branch, bemoaned the government’s inability to support local manufacturers in the automobile industry, citing Kantanka Automobile as a prime example.
He urged the government to pay more attention to Kantanka and provide the necessary support to expand its production capacity.
