Ghana’s government has submitted a bill to Parliament to legalise commercial motorcycle and tricycle operations, known as Okada.
The bill, laid by Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe, aims to amend the 2004 Road Traffic Act to regulate the industry, develop safety standards, and provide licences.
It will also facilitate the development of standards for seat belts, safety gear, and other required equipment, as well as make provisions for related regulatory matters.
If passed, Ghana will repeal or modify relevant sections of the 2004 Road Traffic Act (Act 683) and L.I. 2180, legalising commercial motorcycle transport under a regulated, licensed framework.
The introduction of the bill aligns with long-standing advocacy for the legalisation of okada, a position most prominently championed by President John Mahama.
This is in fulfilment of President John Mahama’s campaign pledge to support the industry as a major source of youth employment.
President John Dramani Mahama, in his first State of the Nation Address this year, announced plans to amend the traffic and transport laws to legalize commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as Okada.
This aims to create jobs and improve urban mobility.
President Mahama outlined a four-point plan to regulate the sector, covering licensing, rider training, safety enforcement, and digital tracking to curb reckless riding and reduce road accidents.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
