Omanghana
Ghana’s Minister for Transport, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, has confirmed the arrival of 100 new 29-seater buses at the Port of Tema as part of efforts to address rising transport fares and vehicle shortages.
The buses are set to be deployed to key state transport operators, including the Metro Mass Transit and the Intercity STC Coaches Limited, to strengthen their fleets for intra-city and short-distance intercity travel.
Government officials expect the introduction of these high-capacity buses to provide a more affordable alternative to private commercial transport, commonly known as “trotros.” The move is anticipated to ease pressure on commuters and potentially drive a 10 to 15 percent reduction in transport fares.
Deployment will prioritize high-traffic routes in major urban centers such as Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale, where commuters have experienced prolonged waiting times and significant fare increases.
The delivery forms part of a broader government plan to procure 300 buses in 2026 to modernize and expand the country’s public transport system.
In a shift from previous procurement challenges, the new contract includes a two-year onsite maintenance agreement with the manufacturers, aimed at ensuring reliability and preventing the widespread breakdown of buses that has affected earlier fleets.
Additionally, the buses are equipped with compressed natural gas (CNG)-compatible engines, a move designed to reduce operational costs and support the government’s transition away from reliance on expensive diesel fuel.
Source: Omanghana
