Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has urged the leadership and members of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and other transport operators to work together with the government in efforts to overhaul Ghana’s public transport system.
Dr. Bawumia highlighted ongoing efforts to integrate digitalization into the transport sector, including simplifying processes for acquiring driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, and insurance renewal. He also mentioned upcoming initiatives such as the Tap n Go ride-hailing system for taxis and the introduction of Electric Buses to enhance the sector’s efficiency and profitability.
Addressing the 11th Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the GPRTU on July 4, 2024, in Gomoa Fetteh, Central Region, Dr. Bawumia urged transport owners and operators to collaborate closely with the government to ensure the success of these initiatives. He emphasized the critical role of transport operators in national development, influencing economic growth, social cohesion, and overall quality of life.
Regarding the conference theme, “Transitioning from fossil fuels to electric vehicles for a cleaner environment: The Role of Transport Unions for a Digital Economy,” Vice President Bawumia disclosed that the government is facilitating the acquisition of approximately 100 Electric Buses for operation by the GPRTU by the end of the year. He also announced plans for hybrid charging stations (solar and conventional electricity) to support these buses and other electric vehicles, aiming to shift public transport from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.
Dr. Bawumia underscored the cost benefits of Electric Vehicles (EVs), noting their reduced fuel and spare parts costs compared to traditional vehicles. He pledged government support in renewing transport fleets with EVs and highlighted the Tap n’ Go digital.
Taxis
With the rapid advancements in technology, the role of transport operators in the modern-day transport sector is more complex and demanding, with an attendant effect on revenues, Dr Bawumia noted. The government has therefore moved to meet the challenge of decreased sales for taxi drivers due to the advent of technology.
We have engaged with taxi drivers, hearing their concerns about declining sales due to heightened competition from ride-hailing services like Uber. In response, we have developed a ride-hailing service specifically for taxis, modeled after existing platforms. This service is now ready and slated for launch in approximately a month, potentially on August 12th.
Acknowledging the crucial role of transport operators in national development, Dr. Bawumia assured the government’s commitment to creating a supportive and collaborative environment for their businesses to thrive.
Transport operators not only facilitate the movement of goods and people but also play a vital role in our society’s wellbeing. As a government, we have a responsibility to ensure that public transport operators in the digital economy are empowered,” he stated.
We are dedicated to fostering an enabling environment and introducing innovative solutions to ensure that members of various transport unions benefit from the opportunities presented by the digital economy. We will achieve this through close collaboration with you,” he emphasized.
As we look ahead, it is essential to embrace diversity and work towards formalizing transport operations across the country. The transport sector should serve as a gateway of opportunity for all, regardless of union affiliation,” he added.
The GPRTU, being Ghana’s largest transport organization, provides significant employment opportunities for many Ghanaians. I expect the GPRTU to lead the sector’s transformation and encourage smaller unions to join in these reforms
