The Ministry of Transport is taking significant steps to create a strong regulatory framework for the operation of commercial motorcycles and tricycles, commonly referred to as “okada” in the country. Mr. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the Minister of Transport, announced that the Ministry has initiated the process of amending the Road Traffic Act of 2004 (Act 683) and the Road Traffic Regulations of 2012 (LI 2180) to better regulate motorcycles and tricycles used for fare-paying passengers.
“Motorcycles and tricycles, or okada, play a crucial role in our transportation system. However, the current regulations prohibit their use, which leads to challenges in enforcement and safety,” Mr. Nikpe stated during his address at the Government Accountability Series press conference held at the Presidency in Accra.
He further explained that stakeholder consultations have been completed, and the proposed amendments have received Cabinet approval to be presented in Parliament when it reconvenes. Regarding public transport fares, the Minister mentioned that in an effort to ease the financial burden on commuters and reflect improvements in microeconomic conditions—such as a reduction in fuel prices—the government has negotiated a 15 percent decrease in public transport fares with transport operators.
He said this reduction, which took place or effect on May 24, represents the most significant decrease recorded since the administrative arrangement on public transport fares was introduced in 2015. Mr Nikpe said this measure had provided relief to commuters while maintaining the operational stability of transport operators.
Source: GNA
