The Vice President of Ghana and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, officially commissioned the country’s first electric buses on November 27, 2024.
The event was held at the Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE) Headquarters along the Adenta-Ashaley Botwe Road.
Vice President Dr. Bawumia delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of this milestone in Ghana’s transport sector.
The introduction of electric buses marks a significant step in modernizing Ghana’s public transport system.
The initiative aims is to promote environmentally sustainable transportation, reduce the cost of public transportation, ease commuting stress for passengers, create job opportunities, especially for women.
This groundbreaking move aligns with Dr. Bawumia’s vision to improve the nation’s infrastructure and reduce Ghana’s carbon footprint.
The idea for the project was conceived in February 2024, following consultations on how to enhance the country’s public transport network.
Training and Employment Opportunities as part of the initiative, a comprehensive five-month training program was launched to equip drivers with the skills to operate the electric buses.
Notably, the program included several female participants, many of whom were previously working as head porters, commonly known as “kayayes.”
These women expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity, sharing that the training has provided them with stable and well-paying jobs compared to their previous work. They no longer have to endure the physically taxing labor of carrying goods, which yielded minimal income.
A Milestone for Ghana, this initiative is a first in Ghana’s history and represents a significant leap forward in the country’s transportation sector. By adopting electric buses, Ghana joins a global movement towards sustainable and efficient urban mobility.
The Vice President commended all stakeholders involved in making the project a reality, emphasizing that such initiatives will position Ghana as a leader in modern transportation solutions in Africa.
Dignitaries and Speakers at the commissioning ceremony was graced by several distinguished guests and speakers, including
Rev. Sowah Ablorh, Minister in charge of Victory Presbyterian Church, Frafraha, Adenta.
Mr. Albert Adu-Boahen, Managing Director of Metro Mass Transit.
Hon. Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, Minister for Transport.
Akosua Manu, the Parliamentary Candidate for the Adenta Constituency.
Sheikh Imam Mohammed Nurudeen Khalid, Deputy Municipal Chief Imam.
