Suspension Follows Public, Ministry Pushback
The Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) suspended a planned 20% public transport fare increase on August 7, 2025, after a meeting with the Ministry of Transport. The decision, announced on August 5, aimed to address rising costs from a GH¢1.00 per litre fuel levy and poor road conditions.
The proposed hike, set for August 8, covered shared taxis, trotros, intercity coaches, and haulage. Public outcry and criticism from civil society groups, citing economic strain and lack of stakeholder consultation, prompted the suspension. The GRTCC acknowledged the need for broader consensus-building before implementing changes.
Transport operators were directed to maintain the existing 15% fare reduction, effective since May 24, 2025, following a cedi appreciation that lowered fuel prices. The reduction, impacting over 10 million daily commuters, was part of a government initiative to ease living costs amid 5.7% inflation.
The GRTCC’s reversal follows similar pushback against a 30% hike proposed in April 2024. The Ministry of Transport, led by Freda Prempeh, is now facilitating dialogues with GPRTU and commuters to address operational cost concerns while prioritizing affordability for passengers.
The suspension ensures fare stability as the government plans road maintenance investments, with GH¢1.5 billion allocated for 2025 infrastructure upgrades. The GRTCC urged operators to comply and display current fares at terminals, fostering transparency and public cooperation.