The Okada Riders Association of Ghana (ORAG) has commended the government for reducing the age qualification for commercial motorbike operations from 25 to 21 years. The association described the move as a progressive and inclusive step that will provide more opportunities for young Ghanaians in the transport sector.
In an interview with the Daily Times, the National President of ORAG, Mr. Michael Kofi Owusu said the decision aligns with the association’s long-standing call for fair policies that reflect the realities of Ghana’s youthful population. He explained that ORAG had earlier proposed an age limit of 18 or 19 years, noting that anyone eligible to vote and exercise civic duties should equally be considered mature enough to operate responsibly in a lawful trade.
“We initially proposed 18 or 19 years because that’s when a person is recognized as an adult and can vote. But we are happy that the government has now reduced it to 21. It’s a positive step toward empowering responsible young people,” Mr. Owusu stated.
He noted that the previous age limit of 25 years created barriers for many qualified young riders who relied on Okada operations as a source of livelihood. According to him, the reduction will help address unemployment and promote lawful income generation among the youth.
The ORAG President also used the opportunity to renew the association’s call for full legalization of commercial motorbike operations. He revealed that the Minister for Transport has assured ORAG that the legalization proposal will be presented to Parliament as soon as the House resumes sitting, adding that the association is ready to comply fully with all requirements set for legalization.
“These requirements include ensuring that our members are properly trained and that ORAG has a functioning structure with representation in all regions. I can assure the government and the public that we will meet these standards. We are already expanding to Oti, Ahafo, and other regions to ensure full national coverage,” Mr. Owusu said.
He added that legalization will bring structure, discipline, and accountability to the sector, as well as strengthen collaboration between government and riders. Mr. Owusu emphasized that Okada operations have significantly reduced unemployment and helped to curb petty crime and armed robbery in several communities.
“Many young people who might have turned to crime now have honest work to do. Legalizing Okada operations will only make the system safer, more organized, and more beneficial to the economy,” he explained.
Mr. Owusu urged all riders to be law-abiding, dress decently, and adhere to traffic regulations at all times. He said maintaining high professional standards will help the association build public trust and support for its legalization campaign.
Concluding, the ORAG President reaffirmed the association’s commitment to responsible advocacy, training, and partnership with government to ensure that the transport sector remains safe, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of Ghana’s youth.
