Ghana implements new road traffic laws and licensing reforms

Ghana is implementing significant reforms to its road traffic regulations, including the introduction of separate licensing regimes for private and commercial drivers. According to the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), the new framework allows the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to issue distinct licenses for private drivers, commercial drivers, and commercial motorcycle riders. The NRSA emphasizes that commercial driving requires specialized training in customer service and the specific responsibilities of transporting passengers and goods.

Simultaneously, the country faces challenges with road safety and enforcement. Despite the Road Traffic (Amendment) Act, 2025, and new regulations, unauthorized street hawking continues to obstruct major highways. In Accra, the N1 highway at Lapaz has reportedly been used as an open market, with clothing, shoes, and other goods spilling into live traffic lanes, causing significant congestion and safety risks. Observers suggest that unless enforcement and market design are addressed alongside civic behavior, new government-funded markets may face similar issues of being bypassed by traders.