TEMA, Ghana – March 8, 2024 – In a landmark move for the automobile industry in Africa, Honda Manufacturing Ghana Limited (HMG) celebrated the inauguration of its HR-V production line in Tema, Ghana. This significant step marks the dawn of local automobile manufacturing by Honda in the region, with the presence of distinguished guests including local government officials, media representatives, and Honda executives like Katsuhisa Okuda, the visionary leader steering Honda’s regional operations in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
Honda’s expansion into Ghana strengthens its footprint in Africa, following the success of its first manufacturing hub in Nigeria. The new facility in Tema, operational since December 2023, has an initial capacity to produce 500 HR-V units annually, signaling a robust start for Honda’s second African plant.
This strategic move is part of Honda’s broader vision to tap into the burgeoning automotive market in West Africa, where it already has a presence in Nigeria, Ghana, Benin, and Cote d’Ivoire. Since entering the Ghanaian market in 1997, Honda has established deep roots in the community, culminating in the opening of a local office in 2019 to better serve its growing customer base.
Katsuhisa Okuda shared his enthusiasm about the project, emphasizing Honda’s commitment to delivering mobility joy and freedom to the increasing Ghanaian population. “Although our production volume starts modestly, our aim is to significantly enhance the lives of our customers here, offering them products that embody the joy and freedom of mobility. This new plant is a testament to Honda’s dedication to growing alongside the West African community,” Okuda remarked.
Honda Manufacturing Ghana Limited, fully backed by Honda Motor Co., Ltd with a capital of 30 million GHS, is poised to play a pivotal role in Honda’s global strategy, emphasizing the production of automobiles that cater to the specific needs of local customers. The HR-V model, known for its compact size and versatility, is expected to appeal to a wide range of customers in Ghana and beyond.
This venture not only reinforces Honda’s global philosophy of creating products close to its customers but also contributes to the economic growth of Ghana, promising new jobs and technological advancement in the local automotive sector. Honda’s journey in Africa is just gaining momentum, with the Ghana plant paving the way for a future where mobility is accessible to everyone, echoing the company’s mission to bring joy through innovation.
