In a bold and symbolic gesture at the official launch of the OkadaMotto ride-hailing app in Ghana, the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, announced plans to introduce dedicated lanes for commercial motorcyclists (okada riders) in the city.
Speaking at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (A.M.A) Hall, Mayor Allotey shared his personal connection to the sector, revealing, “I’ve been an okada rider before. Let’s make use of this opportunity and be law abiding. We are trying to create a lane for only okada riders just like we have for pedestrians and bicyclists. So, please, respect the job and make it attractive.”
The OkadaMotto app, developed by Gold Coast Mobility Innovations, enters the Ghanaian market following successful pilots in Liberia and Sierra Leone. The digital platform aims to professionalize and regulate okada transport by offering structured services, safety features, and accountability for riders and passengers alike.
One of the most impassioned speeches came from the Founding Partner of OkadaMotto and former Member of Parliament for Kumbungu Central, Hon. Ras Mubarak. He stressed the need to change perceptions about okada riders in Ghana.
“We are rebranding the okada business. We want you to be respected everywhere you go,” Mubarak said. “I don’t know why okada riders are not allowed in some places including Parliament and some government offices but FedEx and DHL delivery guys are allowed. The way you dress must change. It is your office and it must be respected.”
He also urged riders to uphold the law and be conscious of their public image, warning that opponents of okada legalization are watching closely for missteps. “Some of you earn more than those in offices, but you must place value on your office first for others to do the same,” he added.
Dr. Mohammed Sumaila, CEO of OkadaMotto, highlighted the app’s emphasis on rider training and passenger protection. “The OkadaMotto is here to boost passenger safety,” he stated. “We have trained the riders on safety, customer service, basic IT skills, and financial literacy.”
The app also provides digital ride tracking, service ratings, and electronic payments, aiming to formalize a sector long seen as informal and risky.
The Deputy CEO of the National Youth Authority in charge of Finance and Administration, Jacob Adongo Atule, praised the initiative, describing it as a job-creating opportunity that aligns with Ghana’s youth development goals.
“The OkadaMotto represents more than just a new player in the ride business, but a symbol of a brighter future,” he said. “When the Ghanaian entrepreneur behind this succeeds, more jobs will be created here.”
Former Black Stars striker Majid Waris also threw his support behind the project, calling on investors to channel funds into the okada sector. “It is a positive way to develop the nation in terms of employment and easy mobility,” he remarked.
As the OkadaMotto app goes live in Ghana, the excitement among riders and stakeholders is palpable. With a promise of dedicated lanes and growing institutional support, the app’s entry signals a potential turning point in how the okada business is regulated and perceived in the country.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu