In the bustling streets of Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, and Takoradi, the hum of motorcycle engines has become part of the urban rhythm. They weave effortlessly through traffic, reaching places cars cannot. For many Ghanaians, these motorcycles—popularly known as Okada—are more than a means of transport; they are livelihoods, lifelines, and, in some communities, the only affordable mobility option.
Yet despite how deeply embedded Okada has become in Ghana’s transport ecosystem, its legal status remains unchanged. Regulation 128 of LI 2180 still prohibits motorcycles and tricycles from being used for commercial passenger transport. On paper, Okada is illegal. On the streets, it is a booming, unstoppable reality.
A Lifeline for Many, Despite Legal Uncertainty
Across the country, thousands of young people rely on Okada riding for daily income, especially as unemployment rises. In areas with poor road networks or heavy congestion, motorcycles serve as a quick, reliable, and sometimes indispensable alternative. Without them, accessing markets, schools, hospitals, or workplaces would be far more difficult for many.
But Okada operations remain controversial.
Safety Fears and Public Concern
Emergency wards report persistently high numbers of motorcycle accident victims. Rising incidents of criminal activities involving stolen bikes, robberies, and assaults have further damaged the industry’s reputation. Many riders operate without helmets, licenses, training, or basic road-safety knowledge.
Authorities argue that the risks outweigh the benefits. Riders counter that the system has failed them: no proper training, no formal support, no legal recognition—yet they are expected to operate safely and responsibly.
Mahama’s Promise Rekindles National Debate
The discussion regained momentum when former President John Dramani Mahama pledged to legalise and regulate Okada if returned to office. His argument resonated widely:
“Instead of criminalising young people trying to survive, the government should regulate, train, and empower them.”
The pledge reignited hope among riders, many of whom feel marginalized and frequently targeted by law enforcement. But critics warn that legalization without strict enforcement and proper rider education could worsen Ghana’s already troubling accident statistics.
Pragya Riders Protest as Delays Fuel Frustration
Just last week, hundreds of Pragya (tricycle) riders staged a major protest in Kumasi. They opposed a traffic directive restricting their movement within the Central Business District—including Adum and Kejetia—areas crucial to their daily operations.
According to Seidu Mubarak, Ashanti Regional Chairman of the National Union of Tricycle Operators Ghana, the protest was triggered by:
-Significant loss of income
-Constant harassment by city authorities
-Delays in government’s promise to regulate their operations
He noted that during the 2024 campaign season, the NDC assured them of plans to formalise and legalise tricycle transport, but the riders say they have seen little progress.
Mubarak also revealed that government previously sent union representatives and the transport minister to Rwanda to study best practices—evidence, he says, that Ghana has the capacity to build a proper framework.
Government Signals a Major Shift
Barely a week after the Kumasi protest, signs emerged that the wheels of reform are finally turning.
Speaking at the Motor Riders Day Rally—organised by the National Christian Men’s Forum in partnership with the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship International—Kelvin Caternor, Deputy Director for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation at the DVLA, outlined key features of the upcoming regulatory framework.
Among the proposed measures:
-Mandatory oral, theory, and eye tests for all commercial riders
-Unique registration plates for every commercial motorcycle
-Mandatory helmets bearing matching identification numbers for rider and passenger
-Stricter accountability mechanisms to curb crime and enhance safety
Caternor stressed that the new system aims to professionalise the industry, ensuring that Okada operations become safer, more structured, and better integrated into Ghana’s transport system.
The event drew hundreds of riders and stakeholders, all eager to understand how legalization could change their future.
A Nation Watching and Waiting
Across Ghana, Okada riders are hopeful. Their future—along with the future of Ghana’s evolving transport landscape—depends on whether government follows through with a regulatory framework that balances opportunity with safety.
For now, the question remains:
Will Ghana finally legalise Okada and embrace the transport revolution already happening on its streets?
Or will the issue once again be parked, leaving thousands suspended in uncertainty?
Only time will tell whether this long-debated chapter will finally reach a resolution.
By: Nana Achiaa Aboagye