Commercial transport operators declare strike against Traffitech-GH

Commercial transport operators in Ghana, led by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), have announced a nationwide withdrawal of services scheduled for November 4, 2026. The move is a collective protest against the government's implementation and enforcement of Traffitech-GH, a new automated traffic monitoring system. In a joint press statement, several driver associations and unions expressed deep concerns over the system's deployment, citing a lack of sufficient public education and operational transparency.

The Ghana Police Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) recently launched Traffitech-GH to curb road fatalities through the use of advanced sensors and cameras. According to the MTTD, the system has already issued over 200,000 electronic caution notices and has contributed to a decline in road accidents. Under the new regulations, motorists receive Electronic Notices of Violation (ENV) via SMS, detailing the nature of the infraction and the required fine. Fines for minor speeding offenses currently start at GH•240, and motorists are given a 14-day window to either pay or contest the charge using online evidence.

However, transport unions and public observers have criticized the system as being prematurely enforced. Critics, including investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni, have questioned how drivers can be expected to comply with speed limits in areas where signage is either missing or poorly placed. There is particular frustration regarding enforcement near school zones, where drivers claim they are being penalized despite a lack of identifiable markings. The unions argue that the current approach prioritizes revenue through fines over genuine road safety education.

The consequences of unaddressed violations are significant, as failure to pay fines will result in administrative blocks on the renewal of driver's licenses and other vehicle-related services. As the November 4 deadline for the strike approaches, the unions maintain that the strike is necessary to compel the government to address the lack of infrastructure and the perceived unfairness of the automated enforcement process. The widespread withdrawal of commercial services is expected to significantly impact national transit if no resolution is reached with the Ministry of Transport.