Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has assured Ghanaians that the government is fully aware of the transport difficulties facing commuters and is taking concrete steps to resolve the situation.
She gave the assurance during a meeting with officials from the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Local Government, and key stakeholders in the transport sector on Friday, January 16. The engagement focused on the growing challenges within the public transport system, which have left many commuters stranded, frustrated, and financially burdened.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President acknowledged that commuters across the country are experiencing severe difficulties, including congestion on major routes, long queues at bus terminals, overcrowded vehicles, and the rising cost of transport fares. She also noted that some of the challenges stem from exploitative practices by a section of commercial drivers.
“Sometimes, the problem is caused by all kinds of situations, including even exploitation by some of our own drivers, long queues at bus stops and terminals, congestion and all kinds of stress that come with the situation,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang stated.
She emphasised that the transport situation is not an isolated issue but a shared national concern that demands collaboration among government institutions, transport operators, and the general public.
“We want our fellow countrymen and women to be aware that government is not blind to the situation, that we have not seen and we don’t care. We don’t think it is somebody’s problem; it is everybody’s problem,” she said, calling for collective responsibility in finding sustainable solutions.
As part of immediate and medium-term interventions, the Vice President announced that government will provide support to both public and private transport operators through the supply of new high-occupancy buses. These buses are expected to ease pressure on the system and reduce overcrowding, particularly during peak hours.
She revealed that President John Dramani Mahama has directed that urgent measures be taken to strengthen existing transport services nationwide.
“His Excellency has asked me to assure all of you that he will give support to Metro Mass, Aayalolo and the private sector with new high-occupancy buses in order to augment the services in the medium term,” she disclosed.
In addition to new buses, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said government will prioritise the rehabilitation of buses that are currently grounded due to mechanical faults. She noted that delays in repairs have significantly reduced fleet capacity, worsening commuter challenges.
“We also have plans to ensure that those that need to be repaired, the processes will be expedited to ensure they can put more buses on the road as soon as possible,” she added.
Her remarks come at a time when commuters in major cities and regional capitals are struggling with extended waiting times, packed terminals, and increased fares. Many have called for swift government action to stabilise the transport sector.
With the promised interventions, government hopes to restore efficiency to public transport services, reduce commuter stress, and improve mobility as part of broader efforts to enhance urban and national transportation systems.
