Ghana’s Ministry of Transport Undertakes Study Tour in Rwanda to Explore Legalization of Okada and Tricycle Transport

By Stephen Apolima, Legal Analyst

Kigali, Rwanda – March 2025

A high-powered delegation from Ghana’s Ministry of Transport, accompanied by representatives from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), the National Road Safety Authority, and members of the Tricycle and Okada Riders Unions, is currently in Rwanda on a study tour. The visit is part of Ghana’s broader effort to explore best practices in regulating commercial motorcycle and tricycle transport ahead of potential legalization in the country.

The delegation, hosted by Rwanda Cooperation, arrived in Kigali on March 2, 2025. Over the next three days, they will engage with key Rwandan institutions, including the Ministry of Infrastructure (MININFRA), the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), to understand Rwanda’s approach to transport sector regulation, safety mechanisms, and economic integration of motorcycle taxis.

Learning from Rwanda’s Experience

Rwanda has made significant progress in formalizing the commercial motorcycle taxi sector, ensuring safety, efficiency, and economic viability. The Ghanaian delegation will receive presentations on the country’s transport policy, regulatory framework, and strategies for managing motorcycle taxi operations.

On March 3, discussions with the Rwandan Minister of Infrastructure will focus on policy implementation, unionization of operators, and road safety measures. Later, the delegation will meet with RURA officials to delve into the regulatory mechanisms that govern motorcycle taxi operations, including licensing, compliance enforcement, and challenges faced in the sector.

Exploring Sustainable Transport Solutions

Ghana is also exploring electric vehicle adoption as part of its transport modernization efforts. The delegation will engage with key players in Rwanda’s electric motorcycle industry, including Ampersand Rwanda Ltd and Spiro, both of which have pioneered electric mobility solutions and battery-swapping technology in the region. These engagements will provide insights into sustainable transport models and possible pathways for Ghana to integrate green technology into its transport sector.

Towards a Policy Framework for Ghana

The study tour is expected to inform Ghana’s decision-making process regarding the regulation and legalization of commercial motorcycles and tricycles. By learning from Rwanda’s successes and challenges, the Ghanaian government aims to design a framework that ensures safety, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability in the sector.

The delegation will wrap up its study tour on March 5, after final discussions with stakeholders, before returning to Ghana to begin the process of policy formulation and stakeholder engagement.

This visit underscores Ghana’s commitment to a data-driven approach in policymaking, ensuring that decisions regarding the legalization of Okada and tricycle transport are backed by best practices and international experience.