By: Evans Attah Akangla| ignewss — Ho, Ghana
Ghana’s Minister of Transport, Joseph Abukari Nikpe, has dismissed reports suggesting that the government has approved an increase in public transport fares, stressing that no agreement has been reached between the Ministry of Transport and transport unions on any fare adjustment.
Speaking in an interview at the conclusion of a two-day Ghana Transport Sector Strategic Review Retreat in Ho, the minister clarified that while transport unions have submitted proposals for fare increases, negotiations remain ongoing and no final decision has been made.
His comments come in response to an announcement by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and allied transport groups indicating plans to implement a nationwide fare increase from June 2, 2026. The proposed adjustment would affect intra-city “trotro” services, inter-city transport operations, and shared taxi services across the country.
The transport operators cited escalating fuel prices and rising vehicle maintenance costs—including tyres, batteries, engine oil, and spare parts—as the primary reasons for seeking higher fares.
However, Mr. Nikpe emphasized that transport fares cannot be adjusted unilaterally by any stakeholder.
“We do not unilaterally increase fares. We do it collectively,” the minister said.
He explained that under the existing framework governing fare reviews, any increase or reduction must be negotiated and agreed upon by the Ministry of Transport and all recognised transport unions before implementation.
According to the minister, the government has engaged transport operators in extensive discussions throughout the week and remains committed to reaching a consensus through dialogue.
Mr. Nikpe acknowledged the sensitivity of commenting publicly on negotiations before they are concluded, noting that premature statements could undermine stakeholder confidence and the negotiation process.
“We are still talking with all the transport unions, and we have not agreed on any increment for now. They should be patient, and we are working with the transport unions,” he stated.
The minister further revealed that consultations with union leaders were continuing, even as he participated in other official engagements.
“You may have noticed me stepping out with my phone. They are calling, I am calling, and we are still talking. There is no interim agreement for now,” he said.
He urged the public to disregard reports suggesting that a fare increase has already been approved and assured commuters that the government remains engaged with transport operators to find a mutually acceptable outcome.
The ongoing negotiations come amid growing concerns within the transport sector over rising operational costs, with transport unions arguing that current economic conditions have placed significant financial pressure on operators nationwide.
SOURCE: www.ignewss.com