Josiah
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has introduced a versatile, cross-utility card designed to facilitate access and payments for public transport services nationwide. Launched as the “Tap n’ Go Transport” service, it is initially implemented for Metro Mass Transit Limited’s Inter-City Services and will soon extend to other operators like GPRTU, VIP, VVIP, STC, taxis, and trotros. The initiative aims to address challenges in the sector, including corruption, lack of transparency, and accountability.
During the launch ceremony in Accra on February 19, 2024, Vice President Bawumia expressed satisfaction with the success of the government’s ongoing digitalization efforts. He highlighted previous interventions in key areas like the Port, DVLA, Passport Office, NHIS, and Registrar General Department, hinting at additional endeavors in the future.
The Tap n’ Go Transport service is envisioned as a step toward a more efficient and digitally empowered transportation system. It involves a digital card preloaded with cash or a Tap n’ Go app on a phone. The system distinguishes itself from past closed-loop systems, such as the exclusive use of Aayalolo buses, with new features allowing it to be used across all public systems in the country, including railways.
Vice President Bawumia emphasized the inclusive nature of the Tap n’ Go system, aiming to revolutionize Ghana’s public transport by addressing long-standing issues such as corruption, mistrust among drivers, mates, and vehicle owners, as well as the inconvenience of cash transactions causing delays.
With the Tap n’ Go system, issues like boarding with large denominations and challenges in accounting for sales by drivers’ mates are expected to be eliminated. The system is designed to enhance transparency between car owners, drivers, and mates, minimizing concerns about daily takings and vehicle whereabouts.
Vice President Bawumia outlined the potential benefits of the Tap n’ Go system, urging stakeholders in the transport sector to embrace the opportunity for a safer, more efficient, and accessible public transport experience. He emphasized its role in addressing issues such as corruption, ensuring transparency in ticketing, reducing revenue losses, minimizing waiting times at terminals, and optimizing operational costs.
