National Road Safety Authority to register Okada unions in November 2026

The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has announced that it will begin the registration of transport unions and companies for commercial motorcycles and tricycles starting in November 2026. This initiative is a central component of the updated Road Traffic Regulations, which seek to formalize a sector that has historically operated with limited oversight. According to the NRSA Director-General, Abraham Amaliba, the registration process is designed to create a comprehensive database of operators, which will enhance accountability and improve safety standards for all road users across the country.Under the new regulatory framework, individual riders will no longer be permitted to operate independently but must instead belong to a recognized union or company. This structural shift is intended to streamline communication between the authority and the thousands of operators nationwide. To qualify for a commercial license under this system, riders must be at least 21 years old and undergo mandatory safety training. Furthermore, the NRSA will introduce a visual distinction for these vehicles, transitioning their number plates from the current blue to yellow to signify their commercial status.The regulations also address the broader impact of motorcycles and tricycles on urban infrastructure. Mr. Amaliba noted that local assemblies will be tasked with designating specific terminals and identifying suitable operating spaces for these vehicles. This measure is expected to curb the practice of operators and traders occupying pavements, a trend that significantly endangers pedestrian safety and contributes to urban congestion. By establishing formal terminals, the authority aims to create a more organized and predictable transport environment in Ghana's major cities.The upcoming registration in November 2026 marks a significant step in the government's effort to integrate motorcycles and tricycles into the national transport grid safely. While these vehicles provide essential services and livelihoods for many, their involvement in road accidents has remained a major concern for safety advocates. The NRSA intends to use the period leading up to the implementation date to conduct extensive stakeholder engagements and sensitization programs, ensuring that unions and their members are fully prepared to meet the new licensing and operational requirements.