The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) is taking proactive steps to ensure that the eventual legalisation of commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as Okada, is accompanied by strict safety measures and effective law enforcement.
According to NRSA Chief Executive Abraham Amaliba, the government is in the process of amending the Roads Act to legalise Okada operations. Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Monday, March 10, he revealed that the previous attempt to introduce the necessary Legislative Instrument (L.I.) was withdrawn due to concerns raised in Parliament. However, the revised law will soon be reintroduced for approval.
Beyond legalisation, Mr. Amaliba emphasized that safety remains a top priority. To learn from global best practices, an NRSA delegation recently visited Rwanda, a country that has successfully regulated commercial motorcycle transport. He noted that Rwanda’s strict law enforcement and use of technology, such as traffic cameras, have significantly improved safety and orderliness in the sector.
As part of preparations for Okada legalisation, Mr. Amaliba will engage with key stakeholders, including Okada rider associations, tricycle operators, and law enforcement agencies, to discuss regulations and enforcement strategies.
He urged the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service to take a firm stance against reckless riders. “The MTTD must crack down on miscreants. In Rwanda, the enforcement of the law played a key role in making Okada transport safe and efficient,” he stated.
Additionally, he stressed the importance of mandatory safety gear, highlighting Rwanda’s successful model where all riders and passengers wear helmets and reflective jackets for easy identification.
“These best practices, when properly implemented here, will significantly reduce accidents. We are ready to handle the transition with the help of the MTTD,” Mr. Amaliba assured.
With legislative changes and strong enforcement measures on the horizon, the NRSA is positioning itself to ensure that Okada legalisation does not compromise road safety in Ghana.
