The Ministry of Transport has announced plans to legalise commercial motorcycle and tricycle operations, widely known as “Okada,” through a major review of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180).
The revised framework will allow the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to issue special commercial licenses to Okada riders after mandatory training, aimed at improving road safety and curbing rising accidents.
Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe, in a speech delivered on his behalf at the DVLA’s mid-year review conference in Ejisu, said the reform aligns with government’s 24-hour economy agenda to create jobs and expand economic activity.
DVLA Chief Executive Julius Neequaye Kotey noted that the Authority has already strengthened its compliance taskforce and cleared backlogs of license applications, while investing in digitalisation and regional office expansion to improve service delivery.
The decision marks a turning point in the long-running Okada debate. Supporters see it as a lifeline for unemployed youth, while critics raise safety concerns.
The Ministry, however, insists training, licensing, and strict enforcement will be non-negotiable in the rollout.
