Minister of Transport Joseph Bukari Nikpe has expressed concern about persistent challenges in Ghana’s transport sector, stressing the need for stronger collaboration among key ministries and stakeholders to improve efficiency and ease congestion.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, Mr Nikpe noted that the transport sector is inherently multi-sectoral and cannot function effectively without coordinated action.
He said many of the longstanding challenges stemmed from institutions working in silos, but added that the government has, over the past year, prioritised collaboration to address transport-related problems.
Mr Nikpe disclosed that recent engagements involving the Vice President and transport unions have focused on addressing poor road conditions, which have negatively affected vehicle turnaround times.
He said the ministry is also working to open inner perimeter roads and create designated parking and offloading spaces to reduce congestion in major cities.
The Transport Minister highlighted the role of the Ministry of Local Government in managing intra-city transport, noting that Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) are actively leading efforts to decongest streets.
He added that plans are underway to retool the Ayalolo bus system as part of measures to improve urban public transport.
Mr Nikpe further revealed that collaboration with the Ministry of the Interior has led to increased police presence on the roads to ensure smoother traffic flow, while engagement with the Ministry of Trade is aimed at addressing the high cost of spare parts.
He recalled that the government negotiated a 15 per cent reduction in transport fares last year, but drivers initially resisted due to high spare parts prices linked to currency instability.
With the cedi now relatively stable and fuel prices steady, he said discussions are ongoing to reduce spare parts costs, including plans by the Ministry of Trade to introduce a price-monitoring application.
Mr Nikpe also disclosed plans to retool state-owned transport agencies such as Metro Mass Transit and the State Transport Corporation (STC), while intensifying road safety education through the National Road Safety Authority.
He expressed optimism that the combined measures would help decongest cities, improve traffic flow and enhance transport services nationwide.
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