The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has clarified that the government's expansion of Aayalolo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services in Ghana is targeted at private car users, not trotro operators. According to him, the objective is to provide commuters with a faster, more reliable, and comfortable alternative for traveling into Accra during peak periods. This move is expected to persuade some motorists who currently drive alone to switch to mass transit.
Mr. Ayariga argued that improving the quality and predictability of public transport could encourage private car users to leave their cars at home and use public transport. He emphasized that the continued demand for transport between communities and major destinations would also leave room for trotro operators to serve commuters, even as Aayalolo services are expanded. This, he believes, would ensure that trotro operators continue to play a vital role in the transportation sector.
The Minister made these comments on Citi FM on Monday, September 28, 2026. He stated that the government's priority was to attract private car users to public transport, citing the example of a car owner who stands by the roadside every morning, going to work alone in their car. Mr. Ayariga suggested that if given an alternative, such as a clean and rapid transport system, this car owner would opt for the bus, which would take them to their destination quickly and comfortably.
Mr. Ayariga also highlighted the benefits of fixed departure times, which would make it easier for commuters to plan their journeys. He maintained that "there's still a lot of work for transport stations in between the two far ends." This implies that the government is not seeking to disrupt the existing transport system but rather to complement it with a more efficient and reliable service.
The comments come ahead of the government's introduction of a pilot contra-flow arrangement for Aayalolo buses on major Accra corridors from Tuesday, September 29, 2026. The arrangement covers the Amasaman–Accra, Adenta–Accra, and Kasoa–Accra corridors during peak hours, with designated lanes reserved exclusively for Aayalolo services. This move is expected to ease traffic congestion in Accra and provide commuters with a more efficient transportation option.
The expansion of Aayalolo services is part of the government's efforts to improve public transport in Ghana. Recently, the Aayalolo fleet was expanded by 48 buses, which is expected to help ease Accra's traffic. The government's goal is to provide commuters with a reliable and efficient transportation system that would encourage them to switch from private cars to public transport.
The Aayalolo expansion is a key initiative aimed at transforming Ghana's transportation sector. With the introduction of new buses and contra-flow arrangements, commuters can expect a more efficient and reliable transportation system. Key points include: - The Aayalolo expansion targets private car users, not trotro operators. - The government aims to provide commuters with a faster, more reliable, and comfortable alternative for traveling into Accra during peak periods. - The pilot contra-flow arrangement for Aayalolo buses will be introduced on major Accra corridors.
Key points
- The Aayalolo expansion targets private car users, not trotro operators.
- The government aims to provide commuters with a faster, more reliable, and comfortable alternative for traveling into Accra during peak periods.
- The pilot contra-flow arrangement for Aayalolo buses will be introduced on major Accra corridors.
