Government Moves to Regulate Okada Operations with New Road Traffic Law Amendments

The Ministry of Transport has announced plans to amend the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683) and the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (LI 2180) to create a legal framework for the operation of commercial motorcycles and tricycles, popularly known as okada and pragya.

Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe, speaking at the Government Accountability Series press briefing at the Presidency, explained that although okadas have become a key part of Ghana’s transport system, their current use for fare-paying passengers remains illegal under existing laws.

“Motorcycles and tricycles are vital for transportation systems. However, current regulations ban their use, creating enforcement and safety challenges,” Mr. Nikpe stated.

He revealed that stakeholder consultations have been completed, and Cabinet has approved the proposed amendments for presentation to Parliament when it resumes.

Fare Reduction for Commuters

Mr. Nikpe also highlighted that to ease the economic burden on commuters, government successfully negotiated a 15% reduction in public transport fares, effective May 24, 2025.
He described the move as “the most significant decrease recorded since the administrative arrangement on public transport fares was introduced in 2015”, noting that the reduction reflects recent improvements in fuel prices and broader macroeconomic indicators.