Ghana possesses the necessary technical expertise and detailed master plans to develop an efficient Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in its major cities. However, the political will to implement these crucial plans remains absent, according to Professor William Ackaah, Deputy Director of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
Professor Ackaah stated that successive governments have commissioned and relied on numerous transportation master plans for Accra and Kumasi. Some of these plans date back more than two decades. Despite this extensive technical preparation, the country has not fully implemented the recommendations, leading to persistent urban transport challenges.
This situation fits into a broader Ghanaian economic narrative where long-term infrastructure projects often face delays or abandonment. The lack of continuity across political administrations frequently stalls vital development initiatives. Such delays contribute to economic inefficiencies, including lost productivity from traffic congestion and increased operational costs for businesses.
“What is missing now is the political will to implement this master plan. That is what is missing. We have all the technical know-how,” Professor Ackaah explained on the Joy FM Super Morning Show. He emphasized that Ghana does not need more feasibility studies to determine the necessity of BRT. Instead, political leaders must commit public funds to the required infrastructure.
The implications of this inaction are significant for Ghana's urban future and economic growth. Continued delays will exacerbate traffic congestion, increase pollution, and hinder economic activity in rapidly expanding cities. Decision-makers must prioritize coordinated investment and sustained political commitment to avoid a complete breakdown of urban mobility.
Professor Ackaah firmly rejected the notion that Ghana needs further studies to establish the need for a BRT system. He highlighted that the existing master plans are comprehensive technical documents. These documents already provide all the necessary technical solutions for improving urban transport. He insisted that the challenge is not technical but purely political.
Building a proper BRT system requires substantial financial investment. This investment cannot materialize without strong political leadership. Professor Ackaah warned that without bold decisions and committed funding, Ghana risks losing the opportunity to modernize its public transport. The current reliance on low-occupancy vehicles is unsustainable for rapidly growing urban populations.
The CSIR Deputy Director also expressed deep concern about the consequences of ongoing delays. As Accra and other urban centers expand and vehicle ownership rises, traffic conditions will worsen dramatically. He cautioned that the city could reach a point where movement becomes almost impossible if no action is taken. This scenario would severely impact daily life and economic productivity.
Professor Ackaah stressed that the responsibility for delivering an efficient public transport system extends beyond a single institution. He identified the Ministry of Transport as a key player. However, he also included the Ministry of Roads and Highways, local government authorities, and district assemblies as having important roles. Effective coordination among these bodies is essential for planning, funding, and implementing the system.
He criticized the recurring practice of restarting major transport projects with every change of government. This approach wastes valuable time and resources. It also delays solutions to a problem that continues to worsen. A coordinated effort across different ministries is necessary to build a system that benefits all citizens. Governments have a fundamental responsibility to provide efficient, safe, and affordable public transport.
The economic impact of traffic congestion in Ghana is substantial. It leads to lost working hours, increased fuel consumption, and higher transportation costs for businesses and individuals. Implementing a BRT system could significantly alleviate these pressures. It would provide a more reliable and efficient mode of transport. This would enhance productivity and improve the quality of life for urban residents. The long-term benefits of such an investment far outweigh the initial costs.
Ghana's urban population continues to grow, placing immense pressure on existing infrastructure. A well-implemented BRT system would not only ease congestion but also contribute to environmental sustainability. It would reduce carbon emissions by encouraging a shift from private vehicles to public transport. This strategic investment is critical for Ghana's sustainable urban development and economic competitiveness.