Former Vice-Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has warned against rushing in the commercialisation of motorcycle (Okada) and tricycle (Aboboyaa) operations.

According to Professor Kwasi Kwafo Adarkwa, there is a need for thorough research and pilot programmes before full implementation.

Speaking on JoyNews The Pulse on Monday, March 10, Prof Adarkwa highlighted findings from his research on Okada and Aboboyaa, noting that while Aboboyaa contributes significantly to local economic development, it also poses serious risks in terms of road safety.

• Read also: Okada legalisation process underway, law to be amended – NRSA CEO

He cautioned that any move to commercialise these transport modes nationwide should be done gradually and with careful planning.

"If it’s possible, let’s try and pilot it first and see what the effects are before we escalate it into a full-blown project. If we go countrywide, it will be very difficult.

"We are talking about not just the movement of passengers, but also the movement of freight. When the two crash, the fatalities are very high. So I will say that let’s move cautiously," he warned.

His remarks follow comment by the Chief Executive of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), Abraham Amaliba, who recently announced that steps are being taken to amend the Roads Act to legalize commercial motorcycle operations.

Speaking on JoyNews The Pulse on Monday, March 10, he explained that the Legislative Instrument (L.I.) meant to legalise Okada was previously withdrawn from Parliament due to concerns over siren usage by Members of Parliament.

However, he stated that the law is being reviewed and will soon be reintroduced to Parliament for approval, after which the legalisation process will commence.

Prof Adarkwa stressed that road accidents are largely influenced by human behaviour, which does not change simply through legal reforms.

He, therefore, advised that extensive groundwork, education, and behavioural change initiatives be prioritised before full implementation of Okada and Aboboyaa commercialisation.