Government through the Transport Ministry has officially presented to Parliament a new bill that seeks to legalise the commercial use of motorcycles and tricycles, widely referred to as okada.

The legislation was introduced by the Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, marking a major step toward reforming Ghana’s transport sector.

The draft law proposes amendments to the Road Traffic Act 2004 (Act 683) to permit motorcycles, tricycles, and quadricycles to operate legally for commercial transport. It also empowers regulators to set standards for safety gear, seat belts, protective equipment and to establish broader rules governing the industry.

Following the bill’s introduction, Members of Parliament are expected to begin deliberations and scrutinise its provisions in the coming days.

Once approved, the amended law would repeal or alter parts of Act 683 and its corresponding legislative instrument, L.I. 2180, paving the way for a fully regulated and licenced commercial motorcycle transport system.

The move is consistent with long-standing calls to regularise the okada business,  advocacy most notably championed by President John Mahama. During his 2020 campaign and again ahead of the 2024 elections, Mahama committed to legalising the industry, arguing that it has become a significant source of employment for young people and should be supported rather than criminalised.