Features
Certification of locally assembled vehicles
The story of two friends who stayed in the same village called “Papaasa” somewhere in the Eastern Region were close to each other until in their early 20s when one of them decided to move away from the other because of the lazy behaviour put up by the other friend.
The lazy person known as “Atadwe” was so lazy that washing his own clothes to make him look neat was a big problem for him. The other friend known as “Din Pa Na Eye” stayed away from this lazy friend and was able to invest in his own business to become independent of any other person in the village. This was a positive behaviour worthy of emulation.
Not long ago, the President of the Republic Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo hinted of plans to set up an automobile industry in Ghana to allow the building of local assembled vehicles in the country to reduce dependency on countries that manufacture such vehicles for export.
AUTOMOBILE POLICY
The decision of the government to set up an automobile industry in the country is a well thought-through policy that will ultimately benefit the country in a number of ways. The automobile policy requires the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) to play a useful role and ensure that automobiles will be manufactured for both the domestic and the sub-region of West Africa.
In fact, the GSA is required to implement internationally recognised standards and regulations for automobile manufacturing. The implementation of the standards includes compulsory vehicle standards, homologation (vehicle certification), conformity assessment as well as entire vehicle marking to ensure the safety, efficiency and environmental compliance of Ghana’s vehicle fleet. This is an encouraging development because standards and regulations help to facilitate Asset-backed Vehicle Financing thereby enabling the manufacture of the value of the vehicle fleet.
The implementation of these national standards was originally meant to begin in January 2020. Unfortunately, it was delayed due to a slowing down in the ratification of the Customs Amendment Bill. The delay in the ratification of that Bill slowed down the implementation process.
The Bill was eventually passed by Parliament in March 2020, but the country’s determination to move at a faster rate on the issue was once again delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The good news is that despite these challenges, in June 2020, the GSA was able to begin its activities in vehicle standardisation to ensure the quality and safety of the first vehicles that were assembled in the country.
All these go to show that the country, with determination, has the capacity to strive shoulder to shoulder with others in the world. Having developed the standards, the GSA is now in a position to certify vehicles that are manufactured elsewhere, within the country or assembled in Ghana.
STANDARDISATION & CERTIFICATION
The standardisation and also certification of the automobile industry in the country is a good move that have been initiated by the government. A number of reasons could be identified as motives behind the move. In the first place, the President thought it wise to indigenise the automobile industry. This way, appropriate skills and technology could be passed on to Ghanaians employed in that sector.
There is also another reason the President thought of a local automobile industry in Ghana. The issue of employment is relevant here because, technical skills employed in that sector could be utilised to form the basis of employment in the sector. Again, world-trained people with marketing skills can also make use of their knowledge to help promote and sell the vehicles manufactured or assembled in Ghana. These will help to reduce unemployment in the country.
Another important reason for the President’s decision relates to attracting attention to Ghana as a hub for the production of vehicles in the sub-region of West Africa. This move is also likely to influence neighbouring states in West Africa and the rest of Africa to place their orders of vehicles from Ghana.
WORKING GROUP TECHNICAL SESSION
In line with the desire to set up an automobile industry in the country, a Working Group Technical Session (WGTS) was set up to see to the review of standards within a certain period. This working group began the review and revision of 15 automobile lubricant national standards. In addition, the group developed also Working Drafts. All these were done in the month of May 2021.
In fact, by the end of May 2021, the Standards Authority had been able to complete the homologation or certification of 14 automobile vehicle models either imported into the country as Fully-Built-Units (FBU) or assembled in Ghana from Semi-Knocked Down Kits.
A number of models were assembled here. Indeed, Homologated Models that were dealt with included VW’s Tiguan, Amarok and Teramont. Others were Gol, Polo, Passat and T-cross, Toyota’s Hilux, Corolla cross, Fortuner and Rav 4. The rest of the Homologated Models dealt with were Land Cruiser Prado, Isuzu’s D-max Pick-up and Changan’s Hunter Pick-up.
As of now the Authority is working on the homologation of an additional 14 models from Ford, Hyundai, Honda, Changan, Citroen, Peugeot and VW.
The homologation of the vehicles is meant to achieve quality and safety by ensuring that all the models are produced according to required standards. The certification or homologation of the models is meant to ensure that the models are fit-for-purpose and ensure value for money for customers who may be interested in purchasing them.
GHANA BEYOND AID
It is quite good that the Ghanaian society has foreseen the need to promote the assembling or production of vehicles in the country. This is in line with Nana Akufo-Addo’s decision of Ghana Beyond Aid which is an economic strategy aimed at ensuring that the country moves on gradually to ultimately depend on its own self in the production of certain goods and services.
With this development, the cash base of the economy will expand to include incomes from purchases made by customers outside the country for such vehicles. What this means is that it will help in the strengthening of the local currency, that is, the Cedi against other currencies.
The establishment of a successful automobile industry greatly depends on ensuring that measures are taken to conform to standards. In this case, the application of standards has come in form of homologation or certification of the models for the purpose of safety, quality as well as fit-for-purpose. This shows that the Ghana Standards Authority is playing its part to ensure that the expected quality is guaranteed.
Once this is done, the vehicles produced here would be comparable in terms of quality to others produced in any part of the world. Indeed, it has been learnt that because of the absence of automobile industry in the country, some of the brand vehicles manufactured and imported into the country had doors and other parts that were sub-standard. What all this means is that Ghana is gradually rubbing shoulder to shoulder with other vehicle manufacturing countries in the world.
This is a bold step that must be greatly supported by all stakeholders because if for nothing at all it shows the determination of the Ghanaian leader, Nana Akufo-Addo, to ensure that the country is pushed to greater heights. Again, as a result of this, Ghana will be accorded the needed respect as far as vehicle production or assembling is concerned.
No country is an island so each one needs to depend on the other for development. However, countries must know the limit of dependence and note that their dependence on others should not be pursued in perpetuity but used as a stepping-stone to leap forward to achieve a reasonable measure of economic independence. This is what President Akufo-Addo is striving to achieve to enable the country to depend on its own self in terms of national economic development in the automobile manufacturing sector. It shows that the government is making every effort “to fix Ghana”.
This is good news that must be told to the rest of the world because it is better than going round the world with a cup in hand “begging for alms”.
Contact email/whatsApp of author:
Pradmat2013@gmail.com (0553318911)
In the pursuit of nurturing healthy, fulfilling relationships, we often focus on understanding our partners, communicating effectively, and navigating conflicts. However, a crucial element is frequently overlooked: self-awareness.
Understanding ourselves is the foundation upon which successful relationships are built. Imagine being in a relationship where every conversation feels like a minefield, and every disagreement leaves you wondering if you are truly understood.
Now, picture a relationship where you feel seen, heard, and valued—not because your partner has magically figured you out, but because you have taken the time to understand yourself. This is the transformative power of self-awareness in relationships.
What is Self-Awareness?
Self-awareness is the ability to recognize and understand our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is the capacity to reflect on ourselves, acknowledging our strengths and weaknesses, and taking responsibility for our actions. With self-awareness, we are better equipped to manage our emotions, respond to situations more thoughtfully, and make informed decisions that align with our values.
How Self-Awareness Impacts Relationships
- Improved Communication:
When we are aware of our own emotions and needs, we can communicate them more effectively to our partner, reducing misunderstandings and conflicts. By recognising our tendency to become defensive in certain situations, we can take a step back, breathe, and respond more constructively. - Increased Empathy:
Self-awareness allows us to recognise and manage our own biases, enabling us to be more empathetic and understanding towards our partner’s perspective. By acknowledging our own emotional triggers, we can respond to our partner’s needs with more compassion. - Healthier Boundaries:
By understanding our own needs and limits, we can establish and maintain healthy boundaries, preventing codependency and resentment. Self-awareness helps us communicate our boundaries clearly and respectfully, fostering mutual respect in relationships. - Personal Growth:
Self-awareness fosters personal growth, enabling us to work on our flaws and become a better partner, friend, and individual. As we develop self-awareness, we become more resilient, adaptable, and better equipped to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and purpose.
Cultivating Self-Awareness
- Mindfulness and Reflection:
Regular mindfulness practices and self-reflection can help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself. Schedule time for reflection, whether through journaling, meditating, or simply taking a quiet walk in nature. - Journaling:
Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences can provide valuable insights into your motivations and behaviors. Reflect on your journal entries to identify patterns, gain clarity, and develop a greater understanding of yourself. - Seek Feedback:
Ask trusted friends, family, or a therapist at Counselor Prince & Associates Consult (CPAC) for feedback on your strengths and areas for improvement. Be open to constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity for growth and self-awareness. - Embrace Imperfection:
Recognise that nobody is perfect, and it is okay to make mistakes. This mindset allows you to approach self-awareness with kindness and compassion, fostering a more positive and growth-oriented relationship with yourself.
As we cultivate self-awareness, we embark on a journey of growth, discovery, and transformation. By understanding ourselves, we can build stronger, more resilient relationships, and live a more authentic, meaningful life. Self-awareness is not a destination; it is a continuous process of learning, growing, and evolving—and one that requires patience, kindness, and compassion towards ourselves and others.
In conclusion, self-awareness is the cornerstone of healthy, fulfilling relationships. By understanding ourselves, we can communicate more effectively, empathise with our partner, and cultivate personal growth. As we strive to build stronger relationships, let us prioritise self-awareness, embracing our true selves, and loving ourselves for who we are. By doing so, we will become better partners, friends, and individuals—capable of building more profound, lasting connections with others, and living a life that truly reflects our values and aspirations.
To be continued …
By Counselor Prince Offei
Join our WhatsApp Channel now!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBElzjInlqHhl1aTU27
ONE profession which society has battled with is prostitution. Prostitutes can’t be stopped in their tracks. Soldiers have tried, policemen have doubled and redoubled to keep them off the streets. But the prostitute is like the cockroach. Sack it from the kitchen and it moves to the toilet where it can enjoy self-contained facilities. Drive it away from there and it scurries to the bedroom to become the landlord.
Prostitutes can live on land and sea. They are mysterious and defy gravity, a feat—even birds of the air have not successfully accomplished. They can change form and appear as bar girls; they dress like students; act like scholars and speak Oxford English. They are also like the chameleon but once their clients can identify them, no problem. The Sikaman prostitute normally enters the business as an amateur, having been introduced by a professional or a caricature of a pimp. But she learns quickly.
In a short time, she is able to take any size without wailing, unless of course the size is “international”.
Prostitutes are of every tribe, height, weight, colour and notoriety. These days, some are well-schooled with diplomas and degrees. They enter into the world’s oldest profession due to factors ranging from poverty to nymphomania.
Most prostitutes in Sikaman are often not sophisticated in outlook and modus operandi. Often, they easily betray themselves with their gaudy appearance, over-painted faces, skimpy skirts, cigarette in hand, walking with that kind of bottom-wriggling gait that can instantly turn a devoted clergyman into a he-goat.
In developed countries like Spain, prostitution takes different forms. Apart from those you can grab from the cheap bars and ghettos for single night stands and those managed by shameless pimps, there are some who are organised by well-established syndicates and specialised agencies.
If you need a girl for the night, you only have to telephone an agency, describing the kind and breed you want—race, height, size, colour (chocolate?), rudeness, smoking type, strip-teasing, shyness, whatever.
You give your address and the girl on time. You pay by the hour and cost per hour can make you feel dizzy without falling down. You’ll still be steady for the showdown.
The girls have been trained to use tricks and communication skills to make their clients spend several hours without really doing anything. A typical prostitute will make you drink, chat at length (they are very knowledgeable), cook for you, bathe you and breast-feed you. That takes some three hours and you have to pay if you still want her services.
If you grow a bit wiser and protest, and insist vehemently that you are tired of being babied and want some real action now, she’ll do another hour of strip-tease and belly-dance by which time you’re either bored or charged to bursting point.
And finally you will do it but never without a condom. And the kind of condom she’ll give you can’t be torn by any knife around the globe, not even okapi. Before you’re finally through, you’ve got some five-hour helluva bill to pay. Next time round, you’ll think twice and go in for the cheap-side who’ll even allow you to do it without condoms if you are tired of living and want to die of AIDS.
In Sikaman, apart from those who operate from hotels and bars, some operate in private homes. The clients come and line-up, each with a hard-on. When the queue is not moving fast some begin to sweat because they have a very low sexual boiling point. If they are not ushered in quickly they can cause problems.
They’ll start grunting and stamping and can disrupt the peaceful and orderly procedure. As it were, such clients need priority attention so that they do not cause a riot and disturb the public peace.
Incidentally, prostitutes don’t like dealing with such clients because they are bad business. They have no biblical patience at all. They rush too much, and that was why a prostitute once asked a client whether he was a Russian because he rushed a bit too much and messed up things.
Prostitution in Sikaman has taken a new turn. Girls as little as sixteen are selling their bodies sometimes with the passive connivance of their mothers. When the girls go out at 9.00 p.m. and return at 3.00 a.m, their mothers let them in without asking questions. Next day, the house is properly fed from the proceeds of the night adventure and everybody is happy and nobody talks. If you talk, no breakfast for you tomorrow morning.
The police are doing quite a job trying to get them off the streets but they go and return just like the cockroach. Many of them are surely agents for the transmission of the AIDS virus because they permit clients to forgo the condom. They only have to pay extra for the “raw” service.
Now, the idea of legalising prostitution has been a very controversial one. If prostitutes can hardly be gotten off the streets since they are defiant and are now very many, why not legalise the profession, issue licences (not to kids), offer them health services and health education, teach them how to protect themselves and others from sexually transmitted diseases and then compel them to pay tax?
That would force children out of the trade because the legal operators will themselves force out the kids who will be competing with them. They would even assist the police to kick out the 15 and 16 year olds.
If a bad phenomenon cannot be wiped out, a way must be found to make it less and less harmless, so that while it doesn’t benefit society in any grand way, it does not also harm it.
Any suggestions?
Join our WhatsApp Channel now!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBElzjInlqHhl1aTU27
