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Accra, August 7, 2025
The Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) has suspended a proposed 20% increase in public transport fares following high-level consultations with the Ministry of Transport on Wednesday, August 6.
The decision comes in response to growing public concern and criticism over the lack of inclusive stakeholder engagement in the lead-up to the fare adjustment, which had been scheduled to take effect on Friday, August 8, 2025.
In a statement issued Thursday, the GRTCC announced that all transport operators have now been directed to strictly maintain the current 15% reduction in fares, which was implemented on May 24, 2025.
“Transport Operators have agreed to suspend the purported 20% increment in public transport fares as a result of the lack of broader consultations on the decision,” the GRTCC said.
Background to the Controversy
The proposed fare hike, announced by Road Transport Operators on August 5, was to apply to shared taxis, intra-city trotro services, intercity (long-distance) buses, and haulage transport. The move was reportedly based on provisions under the Administrative Arrangement on Public Transport Fares, which allows for adjustments based on changes in operational costs such as fuel, spare parts, and insurance.
However, the sudden announcement sparked backlash from civil society groups, commuters, and some political figures, many of whom argued that the timing and economic climate did not justify a fare increase and that relevant stakeholders—including commuters and consumer groups—had not been adequately consulted.
Current Fare Status
With the suspension in effect, the 15% reduction in transport fares introduced earlier this year remains binding for all public transport operators across the country.
The Ministry of Transport is expected to lead further engagements with all stakeholders, including passenger advocacy groups and transport unions, to determine a more inclusive and sustainable path forward.
Commuters have welcomed the decision, calling it a temporary relief amid economic pressures. Transport operators have been advised to comply fully with the directive to avoid sanctions.
