The Ministry of Transport is taking steps to establish a robust regulatory framework for the operations of commercial motorcycles and tricycles, commonly known as okada in the country. 

Mr Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the Minister of Transport, said as part of efforts to regulate motorcycles and tricycles for fare-paying passengers, the Ministry had begun processes to amend the Road Traffic Act 2004, Act 683 and the Road Traffic Regulations 2012, LI2180.  

“Motorcycles and tricycles, commonly known as Okada, are vital for transportation systems. However, current regulations ban their use, creating enforcement and safety challenges,” Mr Nikpe said when he took his turn at the Government Accountability Series press conference held at the Presidency in Accra. 

He said stakeholder consultations had been completed, and the proposed amendments had been approved by the Cabinet to be laid in Parliament when they resume.  

Concerning the reduction in public transport fares, the Minister said to alleviate the burden on commuters and mirror microeconomic improvement, such as the reduction in fuel prices, the government negotiated with transport operators for a 15 per cent decrease in public transport fares.  

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.