GPRTU and GRTCC Suspend Transport Fare Hikes Following Government Diesel Price Intervention

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) have officially suspended plans to increase public transport fares following a high-level meeting with the Ministry of Transport on September 8, 2026. Despite earlier proposals for an upward adjustment due to economic pressures, the unions announced that existing fare structures will remain in effect. This decision was largely influenced by the government's intervention to reduce diesel costs by GH¢2 per litre, a move intended to alleviate the financial burden on both commercial operators and passengers during the current fare review window. A joint working committee has been established to conduct a comprehensive review of the cost factors currently impacting the transport sector, ensuring that any future adjustments are reflective of operational realities while maintaining affordability for the public. During this review period, transport operators have been directed to charge only the approved rates, and the unions have called for calm and cooperation among drivers and passengers. The results of the ongoing consultations will be communicated to the public once the joint team concludes its assessment. In a parallel development within the logistics sector, the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) met with the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) to address critical operational challenges at the Tema Port. On September 8, 2026, IEAG Executive Secretary Samson Asaki Awingobit urged the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority to reclaim expired port lands and upgrade container-handling facilities to accommodate rising cargo volumes. The discussions highlighted concerns over port congestion, extortion by inspection agencies, and the need for the swift evacuation of empty containers to improve the efficiency of Ghana's maritime environment. These developments come at a time when the broader transport and logistics industry faces significant cost pressures across various modes of travel. While road transport fares remain stable for now, domestic air travellers have expressed frustration over high costs, citing one-way fares between Accra and Tamale reaching GH¢2,600. Despite these hurdles, the sector continues to see professional growth and leadership excellence, exemplified by the recognition of industry figures like Baaba Hammond of Bolt for Business, who has been honored for her contributions to improving mobility and corporate transportation solutions in Ghana.