Accra, Ghana – April 22, 2025
The Ministry of Transport has officially reduced the minimum age requirement for commercial motorcycle riders—popularly referred to as okada riders—from 25 to 21 years. This forms part of the government’s broader efforts to regularize and legalize the okada business in Ghana.
The announcement, made earlier this week, signals growing momentum behind the longstanding debate over legalizing commercial motorcycle transport—an informal industry that has become both popular and controversial across urban and rural Ghana.
“Recognizing the Role of Youth in the Sector”
According to the Ministry, the new age limit aims to recognize the role of young people in the transportation ecosystem while ensuring proper regulation, safety, and training. The decision is expected to provide more structured employment opportunities for the youth and help address unemployment.
Legalization in Sight?
The reduction in age requirement is one of the key steps being taken ahead of plans to fully legalize okada operations in the country. The Ministry noted that additional measures—including rider training, licensing reforms, and safety regulations—will be rolled out in phases.
Public and Stakeholder Reactions
The move has generated mixed reactions. While many young riders and transport groups welcomed the news, road safety advocates and some civil society organizations have raised concerns over accident rates and law enforcement challenges.
Social media platforms were abuzz with opinions. On Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), many users applauded the government for “finally listening to the people,” while others questioned whether the right structures were in place to prevent chaos on the roads.
What’s Next?
With legal reforms underway, the Ministry of Transport is expected to outline the next phases of the okada legalization process in the coming months. For now, the age policy revision marks a significant milestone in the national conversation around okada transport.
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