The Minister for Transport, Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has urged motorcycle, tricycle and quadricycle operators to demonstrate responsibility and strict adherence to road traffic regulations as Ghana prepares for the full commercialisation of motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles. He made the call at the launch of the Safe Journey Road Safety Campaign, organised by the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) in collaboration with Somoco, in Accra.

Hon. Bukari Nikpe said the campaign forms part of efforts to promote safety, awareness and responsible road use as Government undertakes processes towards the official rollout of the commercial use of motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles in Ghana. He explained that the initiative is expected to improve mobility, create employment opportunities and provide transport services to underserved communities where conventional transport services may not be readily available.

He noted that motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, have become an important means of transportation, supporting economic activities and providing mobility to people in areas where traditional transport services may be limited. He added that the Government recognises the importance of diversifying employment opportunities and improving access to transportation, which informed the decision to amend the relevant road traffic laws to facilitate the commercial use of motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles.

The Minister explained that the legal and regulatory processes are being supported by public education, awareness creation, training and other measures aimed at ensuring that operators are adequately prepared before the full implementation of the policy.

Addressing concerns about the potential increase in road crashes and fatalities following the commercialisation of motorcycles, Hon. Bukari Nikpe stressed that the success of the initiative would depend largely on the discipline and responsible behaviour of operators.

He urged riders to respect traffic regulations, road signs and other road users, while drawing lessons from countries such as Togo and Rwanda, where motorcycle operators demonstrate greater discipline and compliance with road traffic regulations.

The Minister noted that every rider must recognise that responsible behaviour on the road is essential to ensuring they return safely to their families and loved ones after every journey.

He also called on persons intending to engage in the commercial operation of motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles to undergo proper training and familiarise themselves with the country's road traffic regulations. He encouraged prospective operators to access training through the appropriate institutions, including the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), and to make the use of helmets and protective gear a priority.

“Wearing a helmet is not a burden on your head; it is to save your life. Protective gear could reduce the severity of injuries in the event of a road crash,” Hon. Nikpe stated.

Hon. Bukari Nikpe further disclosed that the Government is deploying technology to support road traffic enforcement and assist the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service in identifying road traffic offenders. He noted that technological interventions, including Traffic Tech, would assist the MTTD in detecting and recording traffic violations and promote greater compliance among road users. He therefore cautioned motorcycle, tricycle and quadricycle operators to comply with traffic laws, stressing that technology would increasingly support efforts to monitor road users and enforce regulations.

He reiterated the commitment of the Ministry of Transport and its agencies in ensuring the successful implementation of the commercialisation of motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles in a manner that supports Ghana's transport needs and economic development.

He called on operators and all stakeholders to support the initiative by embracing safety, discipline, training and responsible road use.

“Let us impress Ghanaians, prove to Ghanaians, and show Ghanaians that this commercialisation will serve our economy and help us reach underserved areas when it comes to transportation,” the Minister noted.