The Ministry of Transport has initiated steps to review the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), in order to provide a comprehensive legal framework for the use of motorcycles and tricycles for commercial passenger services, popularly known as “Okada.”
This was disclosed by the Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, in a speech read on his behalf by his Deputy, Dorcas Affo-Toffey, during the opening ceremony of the DVLA’s mid-year review conference at Ejisu in the Ashanti Region.
The five-day conference, themed “Resetting DVLA for an Efficient and Effective 24-hour Operation,” brings together management and staff of the Authority to assess its half-year activities and chart strategies to enhance service delivery.
Once completed, the revised regulations will empower the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to issue commercial licenses specifically for motorcycle and tricycle operators.
Riders will be required to undergo mandatory training before being issued licenses, as part of efforts to improve road safety and reduce accidents.
According to the Minister, the decision to revise the Road Traffic Regulations aligns with the government’s commitment to a 24-hour economy, which seeks to create jobs and boost productivity.
He urged DVLA officials to demonstrate discipline, prudent use of resources, and seriousness in deliberations, stressing that their collective commitment would determine the success of the reforms.
Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, highlighted progress made under his administration, including the clearance of a longstanding backlog of license applications dating back to January 2024.
He said the Authority has rejuvenated its compliance task force to strictly enforce L.I. 2180 and related laws to reduce road accidents, which have become a major public concern.
Mr. Kotey further revealed that new DVLA offices, such as the one at Bole in the Savannah Region, have been established to bring services closer to citizens, while digitalisation and operational efficiency remain top priorities.
Board Chairman of the DVLA, George Spencer Quaye, encouraged staff to embrace technology and innovation, noting that automation of processes would reduce corruption, improve customer satisfaction, and substantially increase revenue for the Authority.
He emphasised that technology would be at the centre of DVLA’s transformation agenda, from automated testing and licensing to real-time monitoring of operations.
The debate over the legalisation of Okada has lingered for years, with proponents arguing that it provides jobs for thousands of unemployed youth and offers faster transport services in congested areas.
Critics, however, point to the high rate of motorcycle-related accidents and safety concerns. The Transport Ministry’s move to revise the law signals a potential turning point in Ghana’s transport sector.
As the review process progresses, the government insists that training, licensing, and strict enforcement of regulations will remain non-negotiable to ensure that the legalisation of Okada does not compromise public safety.
Source:Starrfm.com.gh
