The Association of Automobile Artisans of Ghana has identified insufficient resources and a lack of workshop facilities as significant barriers to expanding their operations nationwide.

The Association emphasises that such resources are fundamental to their recently launched 24-hour vehicle repair service.

They are appealing to the government to nationalise automotive support programmes and allocate dedicated spaces for repair workshops to meet the increasing demand.

Automobile artisans from across Ghana convened in Kumasi for a stakeholder engagement and to unveil the association’s new national executive committee.

Members, who provide comprehensive automotive services for light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles, have introduced a 24-hour service enabling customers to leave their vehicles overnight for repairs.

National Chairman James Arhin explained that, despite the service’s potential to scale up and empower businesses, limited access to workshop facilities is a major shortcoming.

“We now operate a 24-hour service nationwide, which benefits office workers who can leave their cars with us overnight. However, the association urgently requires dedicated spaces and workshops. We currently lack the resources and strength to establish workshops throughout the country. We urge the government to nationalise automobile activities and assist us in securing workshop spaces across Ghana,” he said.

The association’s 5th anniversary was marked under the theme: “Reshaping the Narrative: Celebrating the Legacy and Future of Ghana’s Automobile Artisans.”

James Arhin highlighted the association’s pivotal role in equipping and resourcing young people with technical skills to secure sustainable livelihoods.

The group is actively seeking partnerships to enhance and strengthen the operational efficiency of both the association and its members’ businesses.

“We are making significant progress by providing young people without prior technical knowledge with hope and opportunities within the automobile sector. Securing investment partnerships remains challenging, which is why the association exists — to support vehicle owners and artisans alike. However, the industry is complex for individuals to navigate alone, and we need collaboration with multiple stakeholders,” Mr Arhin added.

The association recently forged partnerships with Hollard Insurance, Seahorse, Equip Auto, and TSG Drive.

Outstanding artisans were recognised with awards and certificates in appreciation of their contributions to the association.

Prof. Prince Owusu Ansah, Principal of Kumasi Technical University, Gyansa Campus, urged artisans to embrace modern trends in the automobile industry.

“With the rapid advancement of technology, it is imperative that auto artisans move beyond traditional methods of vehicle maintenance. Acquiring knowledge of emerging trends is crucial. I am confident that this association is well-positioned to ensure young people receive the necessary training and support,” he said.