Accra: Mr. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the Minister of Transport, expressed optimism on the effectiveness of a regulatory framework currently under consideration, aimed at curbing indiscipline among commercial motorcycle and tricycle riders across the country. The framework is being developed through stakeholder consultations and will introduce measures such as structured training, licensing, and enforcement regimes to ensure disciplined and safety-conscious operations among riders.
According to Ghana News Agency, a 13-member committee, including representatives from key ministries and agencies, was formed to develop the draft framework. Mr. Nikpe made these remarks at a National Stakeholder Consultation Workshop on the proposed amendments to the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180) in Accra. He highlighted the government's awareness of challenges associated with the increased use of motorcycles and tricycles for commercial services, such as rising road crashes and disregard for traffic laws.
The Minister emphasized that the framework would empower law enforcement agencies, particularly the police, to monitor, caution, and sanction errant riders. A database of all commercial motorcycles and tricycles would be developed, requiring riders to join unions that would collaborate with authorities to enforce discipline among members. Licensing and registration of riders will be managed by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA).
Mr. Nikpe noted that the consultation process is nearing completion and will soon be forwarded to the Subsidiary Legislation Committee of Parliament. The Attorney General's Department will draft the amendments before they are laid before Parliament. He mentioned that while commercial motorcycles and tricycles provide last-mile services and cannot be restricted to fixed terminals, the new regime would prioritize safety, inclusivity, and innovation.
Collaboration with the Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development Ministry and the Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Ministry is planned to allocate designated parking slots or terminals. During a presentation on the framework, Mr. Daniel Essel, Head of Road Transport Services, explained that riders must belong to a licensed commercial motorcycle or tricycle transport union. Violators could face fines or imprisonment.
Operators must be incorporated under the Companies Act 2019 (Act 992) and have a physical presence in at least eight administrative regions, with a minimum fleet size of 50 in each region. A standard union dress code and other conditions prescribed by the Regulatory Authority must also be met.
Mr. Hamza Hafiz, General Secretary of the National Union of Tricycle Operators of Ghana, urged government intervention to address the absence of designated stations for tricycle operations. He expressed the union's willingness to partner with the government to implement proper structures and systems. Mr. Hafiz also highlighted insurance challenges faced by tricycle riders due to lack of legal recognition, limiting them to third-party insurance without protection for vehicles or investments. He commended President John Dramani Mahama for initiating efforts to legalise and regulate tricycle operations.
