The State Transport Company (STC) is taking a leading role in Ghana’s environmental sustainability goals by aggressively transitioning its public transport fleet to green technology. In a significant announcement detailing a major fleet modernization strategy, Managing Director Mr. Alhassan Ligbi outlined plans that will see the introduction of electric buses as early as the end of 2025 or the beginning of 2026. This move is central to Ghana’s broader strategy to decarbonize its transport sector.
Phased Rollout and Fleet Composition
The comprehensive plan targets the procurement of a minimum of 500 new buses by 2028. Critically, this new fleet will be predominantly electric, with 430 units slated to be battery-powered vehicles, while the remaining 70 will be conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) buses.
The immediate focus involves a phased deployment. The first phase will introduce 100 buses by the close of the year or early next year. This initial batch will feature a mix of 70 diesel-powered and 30 electric coaches.
Mr. Ligbi clarified that this initial electric contingent will be deployed on shorter, more manageable routes as the national charging infrastructure is simultaneously established and expanded.
Infrastructure and Local Assembly Push
To support this massive electrification effort, STC is not just acquiring vehicles; it’s building the necessary ecosystem. The company intends to construct at least 200 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the nation. Furthermore, STC is actively seeking private investment to establish a local electric vehicle assembly plant within Ghana. This domestic assembly facility would serve not only STC’s future needs but also supply vehicles to private transport operators, fostering a wider national EV adoption.
Enhancing Passenger Experience and Opportunities
Beyond the environmental and technological shift, the modernization strategy includes substantial improvements to STC’s overall service delivery and social footprint. The plans involve the redevelopment of STC’s regional terminals to improve customer facilities, an expansion of cargo services to better utilize the network, and the digitization of ticketing systems to enhance passenger convenience and operational efficiency.
In a move to create employment and diversify its workforce, STC also plans to launch an executive coach service and commit to recruiting and training 150 women drivers. Looking further ahead, the company is preparing to explore opportunities in marine transport contingent upon the government’s planned commencement of inland waterway projects.
This multi-faceted approach positions STC as a catalyst for both green mobility and infrastructural development in Ghana.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
