The Ministry of Transport has concluded its 2026 Strategic Review Retreat in Ho, bringing together key stakeholders and agencies within the transport sector to evaluate performance, address implementation challenges, and chart a strategic course for the years ahead.
The three-day retreat, held from May 28 to 30 at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho, focused on reviewing projects and programmes implemented over the past four years while laying the groundwork for the sector’s Medium-Term Development Plan for 2026–2029.
Opening the retreat, Chief Director of the Ministry of Transport, William Kartey, said the exercise was intended to assess the performance of priority projects, identify bottlenecks affecting implementation, and develop strategies to improve project execution across the transport sector.
Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari, underscored the vital role of the transport sector in the daily lives of Ghanaians and called on agencies under the ministry to ensure that projects are delivered efficiently and within agreed timelines.
According to the Minister, delays in project implementation undermine both the ministry’s performance and public confidence in government initiatives.
“The transport sector remains a critical enabler of national development. It is important that agencies demonstrate initiative, accountability, and commitment in overcoming challenges that hinder project delivery,” he stated.
No Agreement Yet on Transport Fare Increase
Speaking in an interview with Radio Gold on the sidelines of the retreat, Mr. Bukari clarified reports regarding a proposed increase in transport fares, stressing that no agreement had been reached between the Ministry of Transport and transport unions.
“There is currently no agreement between the Ministry of Transport and the unions on transport fare increments. Until negotiations are concluded, transport fares cannot be increased,” the Minister said.
His remarks come amid public discussions over a possible adjustment in transport fares following consultations between sector stakeholders.
Agency Presentations and Accountability Discussions
The retreat featured presentations on the status of major transport projects, implementation challenges, and measures aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability within the sector.
Participants also received a presentation on public sector implementation and accountability from Dr. Evan Aggrey-Darko, Head of the Ghana Civil Service, who emphasized the importance of adherence to Public Financial Management and Tax Revenue Policy frameworks in promoting effective governance and public service delivery.
Several agencies under the transport sector presented updates on their operations and ongoing projects, including the Ghana Shippers’ Authority, Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, Ghana Airports Company Limited, Ghana Railway Development Authority, Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, Ghana Maritime Authority, Intercity STC Coaches Limited, Metro Mass Transit Limited, and the National Road Safety Authority.
On the second day, additional presentations were delivered by the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau and the Water Lake Transport Corporation, followed by extensive discussions and a question-and-answer session that allowed participants to engage directly with agency leadership on key sector concerns.
The retreat concluded with deliberations expected to shape the transport sector’s strategic priorities and Medium-Term Development Plan for 2026–2029 as government seeks to enhance service delivery, strengthen accountability, and accelerate infrastructure development across Ghana’s transport network.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
