Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe has assured commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, that government is working to complete the processes for the legalisation of their operations by the end of this year.
The assurance follows a demonstration by the Okada Riders Association of Ghana and the National Union of Tricycle Operators, who are demanding the legalisation of commercial motorcycle and tricycle operations in Ghana.
Speaking at the commissioning of a new Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) office at Asuogyaman in the Eastern Region, Mr Nikpe urged the operators to remain patient as government puts the necessary measures in place.
He said government is committed to preparing Okada riders for commercial operations through training, education and the provision of appropriate safety equipment.
According to the Minister, the DVLA, the National Road Safety Authority and the Police Traffic Tech unit will jointly provide education and training for operators of motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles.
He said the training will help ensure that operators are equipped to engage in commercial activities safely and professionally.
Mr Nikpe said government expects to roll out the necessary measures for the legalisation of commercial motorcycle operations by the end of the year.
Traffic Tech to tackle road offences
The Transport Minister also disclosed that government is working with the Ghana Police Service on a technology known as Traffic Tech, which will be used to detect speeding and other traffic offences.
DVLA to introduce biometric international driving licences
Meanwhile, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority is set to introduce biometric international driving licences from next month.
DVLA Chief Executive Officer Julius Neequaye said the new licences will be verifiable and are expected to address challenges Ghanaian drivers face when using their licences in other countries.
Mr Neequaye also cautioned DVLA staff against relying on intermediaries popularly known as “goro boys” in the delivery of services.
New DVLA office opens at Asuogyaman
The Member of Parliament for Asuogyaman, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, said the newly opened DVLA office would help end the difficulties drivers and riders face in accessing the authority’s services.
Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey also urged staff of the facility to work diligently and provide efficient services to the public.
The newly opened DVLA office at Asuogyaman is the 25th of 40 offices planned to be established across the country.
By Kojo Ansah
