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The Government of Ghana will soon begin feasibility studies for the development of a Coastal Water Transport System as part of plans to complement the country’s road transport network. The initiative is in line with the vision of President John Dramani Mahama to expand and modernise Ghana’s transportation system for greater efficiency.
Mr Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the Minister of Transport, disclosed this on Wednesday at the Government Accountability Series press conference held at the Presidency in Accra. He said the feasibility studies would explore opportunities in the private sector and encourage participation from both local and international investors.
“We are commissioning a feasibility study to explore the potential in the private sector in the coastal water transport system,” Mr Nikpe stated. He added that expressions of interest would soon be advertised to invite qualified firms, while also urging local companies with relevant experience to take part.
The Minister explained that road transport has long served as the backbone of Ghana’s economy and remains the primary mode of travel for most citizens. “All transport, whether by air, sea, or rail, ultimately ends with road transport,” he said. However, he acknowledged that the sector faces challenges such as congestion, delays, and inefficiencies.
To address these issues, Mr Nikpe outlined several measures being taken to improve efficiency and safety. Among them is the government’s plan to regularise motorcycles and tricycles, popularly known as Okada, which are widely used by commuters but are currently banned under existing regulations.
The Minister noted that Okada and tricycles play a vital role in the transport system, especially in areas where regular buses and taxis are not available. He said the Ministry had started the process of amending the Road Traffic Act 2004 (Act 683) and the Road Traffic Regulations 2012 (LI 2180) to provide a robust legal framework for their use. Stakeholder consultations have already been completed, and Cabinet has approved the proposed amendments. The next step will be for Parliament to consider and pass them into law.
On public transportation fares, Mr Nikpe said the government recently negotiated a 15 per cent reduction to ease the burden on commuters. The reduction, which took effect on May 24, is the biggest recorded since the administrative arrangement on fares was introduced in 2015. According to him, the decision reflects improvements in the economy, including the reduction of fuel prices.
“This measure has provided relief to commuters whilst maintaining operational stability of transport operators,” he explained.
Mr Nikpe also highlighted improvements at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), which has introduced a 24-hour service to support the government’s 24-Hour Economy Policy. He said the DVLA recently opened a modern operational office at the Adenta Bus Terminal in Accra, which provides round-the-clock services to motorists in Adenta and surrounding communities.
He explained that this facility is part of efforts to make services more accessible and convenient for citizens. Since May, the DVLA has commissioned four new offices in Adenta, Bawaleshie, Asamankase, and Akwatia. Two additional offices in Dorma and Bechim are expected to open later this month.
“With the operationalisation of these offices, the Authority is taking steps to close the service gap and bring its operations closer to citizens in underserved areas,” he said.
The Transport Minister emphasised that these reforms are part of broader plans to modernise Ghana’s transport sector, reduce congestion, and provide safer and more efficient mobility options. He added that the Coastal Water Transport System, when developed, will not only ease pressure on the roads but also create new economic opportunities for coastal communities.
The planned project is expected to attract strong interest from private sector players due to its potential to reduce travel time, cut logistics costs, and boost tourism and trade along Ghana’s coastline.
