It seems that Ghana is keen to put itself on the automakers map. The models you see above may not be as pretty as a Range Rover but the creations of Kantanka are 100 per cent African.
The brainchild of Ghanaian minister/industrialist, Kwadwo Safo, Kantanka Automobiles conceives, designs and builds all its own models entirely in Ghana, making it unique on the continent.
Assembly line
An assembly plant staffed by a 300-strong workforce is said to be able to produce 100 cars per year. The company’s brands include Kantanka Omama, Kantanka Pick Up, Nkunimdie V8 and a host of others. The very first models were given approval to go on sale just a few weeks ago.
Models on offer
The company has designed and built several SUV models, though will also produce saloons and even counts an all-electric model, the Kantanka Odeneho, among earlier projects. The latter is a two-seat model that can recharged from a plug point or via solar power; there’s no information available on range or recharge times. Not only does Katanka build the cars but also the engines from the ground up, with materials sourced entirely in Ghana. Among the powerplant offerings are diesel- and petrol-fed mills in various configurations, including a V8 for its range-topping SUV.
Unique features
According to reports from Ghana the manufacturer offers some pretty unique features. Among the novel items is the Classic Vest Ignition Technology: A fashionable vest that can be used to start the vehicle. You press a button on the vest and the vehicle starts. It can either be underwear vest, suit, or any clothing of your choice. Kantanka Royal Staff Ignition Technology (KRSIT) : The automobile would start by pointing a royal staff at it. Kantanka Gold Watch Ignition Technology (KGWIT): The automobile can be started with your gold watch.
More than SA
While the operation may not seem as professional as most others this could well be the first step in Ghana establishing itself as an auto hub in Africa. And right now Kantanka has the upper hand over SA as we don’t build any SA-conceived models for the mass market locally.