Diachronic and synchronic examination of Saltpond ceramics limited

Abstract

This study sought to investigate the collapse of the Saltpond Ceramics Limited. Specifically, the study sought to: trace the historical background of Saltpond Ceramics Limited, examine the operations of Saltpond Ceramics Limited, assess the impact of Saltpond Ceramics Limited on the people of Saltpond and Ghana in general and investigate the causes of collapse of Saltpond Ceramics Limited. The qualitative approach specifically, case study design was employed in collecting, analyzing and interpreting data from the selected respondents of the study. The population of the study comprised past but alive staff of the Saltpond Ceramics Limited living in Saltpond and some people from the Saltpond community. Correspondingly, sample size of thirteen respondents were purposively sampled as former employees for the study. Semi-structured interview guide was used to conduct with the research participants. The interview data was complemented with secondary sources, such as handbooks, website information, legal documents, as well as cite observation. Subsequently, data gathered was thematically analysed. The study revealed that greater abundance of clay deposits in the area of Saltpond that supported the sustainability of production and the proximity of Saltpond to the Takoradi Sea Port, led to its establishment by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. It was also discovered that; the Saltpond Ceramics Limited operated within four (4) mini factories for different products which were being made, however, the initial processes to be carried out before the products come into place were similar, except exceptional cases where customization was needed. Furthermore, it emerged that there was a high level of positive impact of the factory on the people of Saltpond and Ghana at large many of these impacts were cultural, economic, educational and social. Again, the study disclosed that rivalry between the expatriates and the indigenes, poor administrative and industrial management, fall in demand of its product and high cost of production caused the collapse of the factory. From the findings, the study concludes that the establishment of the factory was a prudent idea due to the over-abundance of clay and other raw materials in the locality, however, poor and ineffective management led to its demise. The collapse of the Factory has rendered the youths jobless which has resulted in many social vices in the community. The study recommends among others that as a matter of urgency, governments and potential investors should do due, deep and reflective feasibility studies regarding effective management.