Produce low-cost Vehicles – Gabby tells Katanka

A leading figure in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, has advised local car manufacturers, Katanka Automobile to focus on producing low-cost vehicles which many Ghanaians can afford.

According to the cousin of President Akufo-Addo, Katanka can be a model for taxis in Ghana if the manufacturers target that particular market with affordable cars.

His comments comes after the company issued a statement expressing disappointment in the Akufo-Addo led Government for fast-tracking moves to have German car maker Volkswagen (VW) set up in Ghana even though numerous proposals sent to the government by Kantanka have not been given that same preference.

The statement added; “We are shocked to learn that the Ministry of Trade and Industry is part of this deal and want to question the Minister’s position in the promotion of trade and industry in Ghana vis-à-vis the local automotive industry.

“We are also shocked to learn that government has fast-tracked the signing of the MOU and want to ask the sector minister, still the Minister of Trade and Industry and again his Senior Minister the last time they have fast-tracked any of the numerous proposals that we have submitted to their offices.

“We are again shocked that in the MOU, government has agreed to buy “a certain amount of the cars” from the companies yet to be established and want to ask the Senior Minister if Kantanka has ever been given that opportunity”, the statement said.

However, Mr Otchere-Darko in reaction to the statement said on his Facebook page: “Yes, I own a Kantanka Mensah. It drives just like any other car in its range. I love it! My only issue with the manufacturers is that they should be looking more at building mass produced vehicles which many Ghanaians can afford. Like, the small cars now used for Uber in Accra. Kantanka can be the model for taxis in Ghana if only the manufacturer can target the $8-12,000 (GHS35-60,000) market. Keep it basic! A/C, radio – yes; but no frills”.