Transport Minister Joseph Nikpe has said Ghana’s transport sector requires continuous improvement, particularly in road safety infrastructure and enforcement, following the legalisation of commercial motorcycle operations.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Point of View on Monday December 22, the Minister said the absence of dedicated traffic signs and signals for motor riders has long been a challenge.
He noted that with motorcycle operations now legalised, government plans to introduce new road safety measures, including traffic signs and upgraded traffic lights designed to improve safety for all road users.
“The transport sector needs improvement on a daily basis. We do not have dedicated traffic signs for motor riders, but now that we have legalised their operations, going forward we are going to see some changes, including the kind of traffic lights we will be installing at various points,” he said.
Mr Nikpe stressed that improving road safety is not only about infrastructure but also about discipline and enforcement. Drawing comparisons with neighbouring Togo, he said the difference in road safety outcomes lies largely in law enforcement and personal discipline.
He called for a coordinated approach among key ministries, including Transport, Local Government, Interior, and Roads and Highways, to ensure stricter enforcement of traffic regulations. As part of the effort to instill discipline, the Minister indicated that sanctions such as seizing vehicles and withdrawing drivers’ licences would be applied to offenders.
Mr Nikpe said the combined measures are aimed at improving discipline on the roads, reducing accidents, and creating a safer transport environment as the sector undergoes reforms.
