Parliament of Ghana has passed Road Traffick (Amendment) Bill 2025 to legalize what is known as ‘Okada’ in Ghana subject to Presidential assent.
The Committee observed that the Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill, 2025 is critical for strengthening the legal and regulatory framework goveming road transport and safety in the country.
The Committee noted that the Bill responds to the persistent increase in road traffic crashes, injuries and fatalities, particularly among vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists.
The Committee noted that by introducing clearer limits for determining alcohol concentration in drivers, the Bill seeks to curb the growing incidence of drunk driving, distracted driving and fatigued driving, which remain major contributors to road crashes nationwide.
The Committee noted that the increasing use of motor cycles, tricycles, quadricycles and similar motor vehicles on major roads, has created safety risk for both riders and other road users.
These vehicles usually operate at lower speeds and have limited stability compared to conventional vehicles, making them vulnerable in mixed traffic conditions.
The lack of designated lanes or structured integration within the current road netWork has contributed to congestion, frequent conflicts between road users, and a higher risk of accidents. The Committee therefore recommends the integration of cycle lanes into new road designs in major cities and urban areas to minimize congestion.
This will ensure safe and orderly movement, reduce the risk of collisions, and improve overall traffic flow.
The amended Act sets 21 years as the minimum age for persons engaged in commercial motorcycle operations. Whe Ministry explained that this threshold was informed by stakeholder consultations, during which coacems were raised that individuals between 18 and 20 ycars are within a formative period where they are expected to remain in whool of under apprenticeship rather than pursue commercul ativity
This consideration guided the final age limit adopted in the Act
It is a significant move by passing the Road Traffic Amendment Bill 2025, legalizing the use of motorcycles, tricycles, and quadricycles for commercial purposes.
This legislation aims to boost youth employment and enhance road safety.
The bill, championed by Transport Minister Joseph Nikpe Bukari, seeks to sanitize road transport services, strengthen safety measures, and introduce stricter penalties for offenders. Bukari explained that the bill aims to address issues involving road users and ensure effective and efficient use of roads.
Key Highlights of the Bill:
– _Increased Penalties_: Stricter punishments for traffic offenses
– _Alcohol Limit_: Higher limit for determining alcohol concentration in drivers
– _Regulation_: Comprehensive regulation of the road transport industry
– _Youth Employment_: Expected to create new opportunities for Ghana’s youth
– _Road Safety_: Enhanced safety measures to reduce accidents
The bill’s passage is seen as a fulfillment of President John Dramani Mahama’s promise to Okada riders, who played a significant role in his 2024 electoral campaign. The legislation is expected to improve the overall transportation network and provide a safer environment for road users.
