Story by Nii Okpoti Odamtten & Muhammed Faisal Mustapha
In a significant boost to Ghana’s fast growing automotive sector, Zonda Tec Ghana has officially introduced the globally acclaimed CHERY automobile brand to the Ghanaian market, unveiling the vehicles at a grand opening ceremony at its Dzorwulu branch in Accra.
The colourful launch brought together industry leaders, government officials, business executives and automotive enthusiasts, marking what stakeholders described as a pivotal moment for Ghana’s industrialisation drive and its ambition to become a regional automotive hub.
At the heart of the event was a message of transformation from import dependency to local assembly, from aspiration to execution.
Delivering the keynote address, Chief Executive Officer of Zonda Tec Ghana, Madam Yang Yang, described the unveiling as a defining milestone in the company’s nearly two decade journey.
“For nearly 20 years, Zonda has worked relentlessly to turn our vision of becoming West Africa’s leading commercial vehicle supplier into reality,” she said.
“Today, we welcome CHERY into our family a partnership that represents automotive excellence, innovation and long term commitment to Ghana and West Africa.”
She emphasised that the collaboration signals a strategic shift in Ghana’s automotive value chain, positioning the country as a gateway for vehicle distribution and assembly across the sub region.
“Today, we are not just launching vehicles; we are launching a new chapter in Ghana’s automotive story.”
In an emotional tribute, Madam Yang Yang commended Ghana’s Minister of Trade, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu Adjare, for playing a decisive role in securing the CHERY dealership for Ghana.
According to her, the Chinese automotive giant had initially prioritised larger markets such as South Africa and the Middle East. However, sustained diplomatic and commercial engagement by the Minister changed the narrative.
“The Minister went to China and fought for the brand for Ghana,” she revealed.
“She made a compelling case to CHERY’s leadership that Ghana could serve as a gateway to West Africa and beyond.”
Madam Yang Yang further highlighted the Minister’s personal support for female leadership in business.
“She understands how difficult it is for women to lead major brands, and her encouragement gave us the confidence to pursue this partnership.”
“Ghana is no longer waiting to be chosen we are positioning ourselves to lead.”
Zonda Tec announced the introduction of a comprehensive line of CHERY vehicles tailored specifically for the Ghanaian market, including:
° Tiggo 2 Pro
° Tiggo 7 Pro Max
° Tiggo 9
° Hybrid models
The vehicles, Madam Yang Yang explained, were selected based on three key promises:
fuel efficiency, durability for local road conditions, and luxury at competitive prices.
The SUVs feature 1.5 litre and turbocharged engines engineered for performance and efficiency, supported by enhanced suspension systems and generous ground clearance designed for diverse road conditions.
“Ghanaians should never have to compromise on safety, quality or luxury because of cost,” she stressed.
“We are bringing high technology, brand new vehicles within reach of the Ghanaian consumer.”
“Affordable luxury is no longer a dream it is now assembled in Ghana.”
A major highlight of the launch was confirmation that CHERY vehicles will be locally assembled at Zonda Tec’s state of the art plant in Tema, with a new Phase 3 assembly line scheduled for commissioning by June this year.
This move is expected to significantly expand local employment, transfer technical skills and deepen Ghana’s manufacturing ecosystem.
Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Mr. Seth Twum Akwaboah, praised the initiative as a major step toward strengthening local manufacturing.
Having personally toured the Tema plant, he expressed confidence in the company’s capacity to scale production.
“As an industry association, we are excited about products made in Ghana,” he said.
“What Zonda Tec is doing aligns perfectly with the national vision of expanding manufacturing and creating jobs.”
He emphasised the long term industrial ripple effects of the initiative.
“If manufacturing thrives, it will stimulate services, create employment and drive economic growth. This is how the 24 hour economy becomes a reality.”
“Every vehicle assembled locally is a step toward Ghana’s industrial future.”
Ghana remains one of West Africa’s largest vehicle import hubs, with thousands of vehicles arriving at its ports each month. High costs, however, have historically pushed many consumers toward used vehicles.
Zonda Tec believes the introduction of competitively priced, locally assembled CHERY vehicles will help shift consumer behaviour and reshape the market.
Industry observers say the launch represents renewed confidence in Ghana’s automotive potential and signals the country’s growing reputation as a regional assembly destination.
“This launch is not just about cars it is about confidence in Ghana’s future as an automotive hub.”