Government is moving to legalise and regulate commercial motorcycle transport popularly known as Okada under a comprehensive new framework aimed at streamlining operations and improving road safety.
The development comes just a week after tricycle operators, known as Pragia, staged a protest in Kumasi calling for formal recognition and clear operational guidelines.
Kelvin Caternor, Deputy Director for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), said the reforms are designed to professionalise the sector and promote safer road practices.
Speaking at the “Motor Riders Day Rally,” organised on Sunday, November 23, 2025, by the National Christian Men’s Forum an initiative of the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International in collaboration with 11 Christian men’s groups Mr. Caternor outlined key expectations under the new regulatory regime.
“The commercial rider who becomes licensed will be required to pass an oral test, a theory test, and an eye test. Together, these assessments will ensure the rider becomes a responsible road user,” he said.
He further revealed that each motorcycle will receive a unique registration plate to aid easy identification by law enforcement agencies.
“Mandatory helmets with unique identification numbers for both rider and passenger will also be required. These measures are intended to professionalise the work of Okada riders, improve accountability, and safeguard their livelihoods,” he added.
The event drew hundreds of riders and stakeholders eager to understand how the forthcoming reforms could reshape the future of commercial motorcycle transport in Ghana.
