Gov’t considering review of law banning ‘Okada’ transport

Stakeholder consultations have begun for a possible review of the law which bans the use of motorcycles for commercial purposes.

According to the Transport Ministry which is leading the discussion, the Okada business has provided jobs for thousands of people and has also made commuting easy for traders, hence the need to reconsider the law.

The Road Traffic Regulations, 128, 2012 forbids the use of Motorcycles or tricycles for commercial purposes aside courier and delivery service.

Per the regulations, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority, DVLA cannot register a motorcycle or tricycle for commercial use.

Also, the riders cannot take money from a passenger as fare for a ride.

Anyone who is found liable faces up to 30 days in prison or a fine of not more than 25 penalty units.

Although the law exists, the use of motorcycles for commercial purposes has become one of the most popular means of transport in Ghana.  A lot of traders consider it as a more convenient and fastest means of plying their business as it is easier to move from one place to the other.

“There is no doubt there are advantages of the Okada business. It has employed many and therefore it will be good to look into it again. We all have to engage and discuss this matter,” Deputy Transport Minister, Titus Glover told Citi Business News after a consultative forum by stakeholders in the Transport industry.

Officials from various Institutions were present at the forum. They include officials from the Police MTTD, DVLA as well as some municipal and districts offices within the greater Accra region.

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By Nana Oye Ankrah | citibusinessnews.com