The Minister for Transport, Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has unveiled ambitious plans to legitimize commercial motorcycle (“okada”) and tricycle operations, thereby fulfilling a pivotal campaign promise made by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during the 2024 general elections.
In a media address during his familiarization visit to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) headquarters in Accra, Hon. Nikpe elucidated that the government intends to revise existing legislation to grant “okada” and tricycle operations legal status. He underscored the government’s commitment to expediting the legalization process, ensuring its completion within the shortest possible timeframe.
Hon. Nikpe expressed optimism regarding the implementation of comprehensive training programs and workshops, designed to ensure road safety for both riders and passengers. Furthermore, he assured the public that stringent measures would be enacted to regulate operations and mitigate risks.
The Minister’s visit also aimed to acquaint himself with the challenges confronting the DVLA and explore avenues to enhance service delivery. The Chief Executive of the DVLA, Mr. Julius Neequaye Kotey, emphasized that the government’s flagship 24-hour economy policy would be integrated into the authority’s activities, facilitating the legalization process. He reiterated that both “okada” and tricycle operators would undergo mandatory training prior to commencing operations, ensuring safety and compliance with road regulations ¹.
The proposed legalization is anticipated to generate employment opportunities and provide an alternative means of transportation, prioritizing safety through structured regulations and training. This development is a significant step towards formalizing the commercial motorcycle and tricycle sector, which has long been a vital component of Ghana’s transportation landscape.
Source: Richard Nana Appiah Kubi/Ahotoronline.com
