As part of measures to formalize and streamline Ghana’s booming commercial motorcycle and tricycle (popularly known as okada) business, the Ministry of Transport has unveiled a comprehensive draft Legislative Instrument (LI) aimed at introducing stricter operational and safety standards. This comes as part of amendments to the existing Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (LI 2180), which are undergoing nationwide stakeholder consultations.
A key provision of the new LI is that only individuals aged 25 and above will be permitted to operate commercial motorcycles or tricycles. Furthermore, operators must either be employed by a licensed okada company or be registered members of a recognized transport union. Any violation could result in fines or imprisonment.
Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe, speaking at the national stakeholder forum in Accra on April 7, emphasized that the goal is to bring structure, accountability, and professionalism to a sector that has evolved into a critical component of Ghana’s urban and peri-urban transport ecosystem.
“Our utmost priority is the safety and welfare of the riders and passengers,” Nikpe said. He added that the upcoming regulations would mandate helmet use, periodic vehicle inspections, rider training, and compliance with a structured code of conduct.
The new rules also signal a major shift in regulatory oversight. A 13-member committee has already been constituted to craft the framework, with representatives from key ministries, the Attorney General’s office, the DVLA, National Road Safety Authority, and local government authorities. The framework proposes that operators must have a physical presence in at least eight regions and maintain a fleet size of no fewer than 50 vehicles per region or as otherwise determined by the regulator.
Beyond licensing, the rules require operators to register under the Companies Act, adopt a union dress code, renew licenses periodically, and implement rider retraining programs. Riders, on the other hand, must pass rigorous proficiency, oral, theory, and eye tests, and receive an official identification mark in the form of a yellow license plate and certified helmet with a unique number.
Local assemblies will play a pivotal role in enforcement, granting operating permits, approving designated terminals, and monitoring union compliance.
This move to professionalize the okada business follows years of growing concern over road safety, lawlessness, and inconsistent regulation, despite the sector’s significant role in last-mile transportation. With these reforms, the government hopes to transform the sector into a safer, job-secure, and economically viable transport solution — one that balances youth employment with public safety and industry credibility.
