Transport Fares to Increase by 20% as Drivers Struggle with Rising Costs

Starting Monday, March 17, 2025, commuters across Ghana will experience a 20% increase in transport fares, as announced by the Alliance of Drivers Ghana.

The fare hike comes in response to the escalating operational costs that have put immense pressure on commercial drivers.

According to the association, rising fuel prices and the increasing cost of vehicle maintenance have made it increasingly difficult for drivers to maintain their operations.

In a statement released on Thursday, March 13, General Secretary George Baffour Owusu Afriyie explained that the price of fuel has surged significantly, jumping from GHC12.99 to GHC16.23 per liter.

This increase, coupled with the soaring costs of spare parts, vehicle engines, and engine oil, has created a financial burden for drivers, many of whom are self-employed and do not receive government salaries.

The statement emphasized the daily struggles drivers face, with many returning home empty-handed despite working long hours.

“How can we go to work and come back home with empty hands? We are not receiving pay from the government.

And we are self-employed. We manage ourselves to take care of our families,” the statement read.

The 20% fare adjustment is expected to have a significant impact on commuters, many of whom are already grappling with high living costs.

While the fare increase is a necessary step for drivers to stay afloat, it is likely to add more financial strain to the everyday Ghanaian, particularly those who rely on public transport for their daily commute.

As the fare hike takes effect, drivers have expressed their hope that the government will provide more support to ease their financial burden.

In the meantime, passengers are being urged to prepare for the increased transport costs, which are expected to ripple across the country.