The operations of tricycle operators in Ghana—commonly referred to as candoos in the Upper East Region—are set to be fully streamlined and officially recognized under Ghanaian law, according to the National Union of Tricycle Operators-Ghana.
Speaking on A1 Radio’s Day Break Upper East Show, Hamza Hafiz, the National Chairman of the Union, revealed that Ghana is preparing to adopt a structured legal framework for tricycle operations. This initiative follows insights gathered from Rwanda, where tricycle transport is already regulated and legalized for commercial public use.
“What we saw in Kigali is that the government does not allow free range. People are put in groups—in other words, cooperatives. You cannot control single individuals on the roads. It is going to be implemented the same way in Ghana,” Mr. Hafiz explained.
As part of the anticipated legal reforms, all tricycle operators will be required to join a recognized union before they are allowed to operate commercially.
“If the legalization takes place, operators would have to join a union—not just any union, but one that is widely recognized. You might have your local associations, but all of you would have to come together under the umbrella of the National Union of Tricycle Operators – Ghana,” he added.
Background: Government’s Legalization Efforts
The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Transport and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), is currently in the consultation and policy drafting stage of the process to regulate and legalize tricycle transport services nationwide. This includes the development of a National Tricycle Transport Policy that will ensure road safety, streamline taxation, improve operator welfare, and reduce unregulated operations in both urban and rural areas.
Pilot stakeholder engagements have already begun in selected regions, and policy documents are being prepared for Cabinet approval. Once approved, the National Tricycle Transport Policy will pave the way for mandatory union membership, registration of tricycles, issuance of operating licenses, and training programs for riders.
According to Mr. Hafiz, once implemented, the move will not only ensure safety and accountability but also give operators a unified platform to raise concerns and advocate for better working conditions.
“The union will also serve as a channel through which operators can share their challenges and seek redress, ensuring their voices are heard at national and regional levels,” he said.
The upcoming legal reforms are expected to standardize tricycle transport across Ghana, bringing dignity, safety, and structure to a sector that plays a critical role in local transportation, particularly in rural and underserved regions.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith| Bolgatanga
