In the midst of the devastation caused by the impact of the novel Coronavirus on businesses, it appears there is a glimmer of hope for some spare part dealers following President Akufo-Addo’s announcement that government is working with the right agencies to ascertain the country’s readiness to reopen airports by September 1, 2020.
Ghana’s main Airport, the Kotoka International Airport, has been closed to international passenger flights since March 22, 2020, although cargo transport is allowed as well as special passenger services such as the evacuation of Ghanaians outside the country.
This was part of measures taken by the government to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.
One of the sectors that felt the brunt of the closure of the borders is one of Ghana’s major market place for auto parts and accessories – Abossey Okai.
The industry has seen a massive dip in business since March 2020.
However, during President Akufo-Addo’s 15th address to the nation on Sunday, 16th August, he stated that the Ministry of Aviation, the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and the Ghana Airports Co. Ltd., had been working, with the Ministry of Health and its agencies, to ascertain the country’s readiness to reopen airports.
He stated that the outcome of that exercise would determine whether the country’s air space could be reopened commercially by the 1st of September.
Following this announcement, there appears to be hope for some spare parts dealers who mostly import from China, Dubai and the United States.
Co-Chairman of the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association, Clement Boateng, says the opening of the borders will see a huge influx of goods which will lead to a reduction in prices.
“This is a welcoming message to the entire business community in Ghana. Regarding cargo, some were coming in during the lockdown, but the opening of the airports will allow us to go there and make our own purchases and that will contribute to the reduction in prices,” he said.
For Madam Brenda Morrison, she believes that the opening of the borders by air will not have much impact on their operations. and will also not affect the prices of goods.
“The only problem is with those who have to travel out to bring their goods; but for me, I have been working with my company in South Korea for over 30 years. We send the payment to them and they ship the product to us,” she said.
However, Kofi Appah is appealing to government to tread cautiously as the move could lead to an increase in the country’s COVID-19 cases.
