Transport minister urges quick action to curb reckless driving
Minister for Transport, Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has issued a stern warning about the rising number of road traffic accidents, attributing many of the fatalities to the indiscipline and reckless behaviour of some drivers.
He called for urgent and coordinated efforts to reverse the trend before more lives are lost.
Speaking at the inauguration of the reconstituted Board of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), the Minister described the provisional figures for the first half of the year as “very alarming,” stressing that without prompt action, the situation could deteriorate further.
“It is therefore important that, as Board Members, and through your wise counsel, the Authority is better positioned both financially and technically to address this pressing issue,” Hon. Nikpe stated. “Global best practices have shown that sustained investment in road safety measures can yield long-term positive results.”
He urged the new Board to work closely with Management to implement innovative, result-oriented strategies that would drastically reduce road fatalities across the country.
The Minister also highlighted the NRSA’s expanded mandate under the National Road Safety Authority Act, 2019 (Act 993) and the NRSA Regulations, 2022 (L.I. 2468).
These legal instruments empower the Authority not only to undertake education and awareness campaigns but also to enforce compliance with road safety standards and oversee road transport services.
“I expect the Board to provide the necessary guidance and leadership for the Authority to carry out its responsibilities effectively,” he said.
However, Hon. Nikpe cautioned against any attempt by the Board to usurp the role of management. “As a matter of caution, I wish to remind the Board that, under the governance framework, it is subject to the supervision of the Ministry and should, accordingly, report directly to the Ministry.”
He assured the Board of the Ministry’s continued support, adding that a collaborative relationship between the Board and Management is essential to fulfilling the Authority’s mission.
The newly reconstituted Board of the National Road Safety Authority has Mr. Chemah Joshua Yaadang as Chairman. Other members of the board are
2. Mr. Abraham Amaliba (ESQ) – Member
3. Mr. Derick Amaning Kwarteng – Member
4. Ing. Francis Dormenyo Ahlidza – Member
5. Mrs. Mavis Asare Donkor – Member
6. Mrs. Nana Abuaa Brenya-Okyere – Member
7. Mr. Peter Baba Atiniak – Member
8. Mr. Julius Neequaye Kotey – Member
9. Ms. Freda Ekua Faah – Member
10. Mrs. Naa Shormeh Gyang – Member
11. Ing. Stephen Adu – Member
12. Mr. Oliver Akubia – Member
13. Mr. George Sarpong – Member
With this new Board in place, the Ministry is optimistic about a renewed drive toward making Ghana’s roads safer for all.
Inaugurating the board for the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) Mr Nikpe said the DVLA is set to undergo significant transformation as the transport sector embraces rapid technological advancements.
Speaking at the inauguration of the new DVLA Board, Minister for Transport Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe charged members to lead the Authority into a new era marked by innovation, adaptability, and safety.
“The DVLA is evolving to accommodate new technologies and the changing transport landscape,” the Minister said. “With the advent of autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, and other emerging transport technologies, the licensing system will need to adapt to accommodate these new developments.”
He emphasized the critical role the Board will play in steering the institution forward, urging members to provide clear strategic guidance to Management. “It is therefore my expectation that you will guide Management on this new path to enable the DVLA to serve the needs of the motoring public better,” Hon. Nikpe noted.
The Minister highlighted the expanding mandate of the DVLA, stressing that its responsibilities now go far beyond promoting good driving standards.
“Currently, the DVLA’s mandate extends beyond promoting good driving standards to ensuring the fundamental safety of all road users. This crucial responsibility has a direct impact on the well-being of our country,” he stated.
Hon. Nikpe added that as the world rapidly changes, institutions like the DVLA must remain responsive, innovative, and aligned with global trends in transportation and mobility.
“As a Board, your responsibility is to secure the effective implementation of the functions of the Authority,” he said. “I encourage you to work closely with Management to ensure that DVLA’s operations not only follow current development trends but also set new standards in driver licensing, vehicle registration, and compliance with road safety policies and guidelines.”
At the ceremony, the Minister officially announced the newly appointed Board of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority.
He named Mr. George Spencer Quaye as the new Board Chairman, with additional appointments expected to be announced in due course.
As Ghana looks to modernize its transport systems and improve safety outcomes, the expectations for the new DVLA Board are clear, drive reform, embrace innovation, and uphold the highest standards of service delivery for all road users.