Ghanaians Brace for 20% Transport Fare Hike Starting August 8

Commuters across Ghana will pay 20% more for public transport fares beginning Friday, August 8, 2025, following an official adjustment announced by the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC).

The fare hike affects all categories of road transport, including shared taxis, intra-city “trotros”, intercity (long-distance) buses, and haulage vehicles.

According to the GRTCC, the decision comes in response to several economic challenges affecting the transport sector. These include:

• A 15% fare reduction in May that was not matched by reductions in the prices of spare parts, goods, and services.

• A recent GH¢1.00 per liter fuel levy, which has driven fuel costs up by approximately 8%.

• Deplorable road conditions across the country, which have caused a spike in vehicle maintenance costs.

Emmanuel Ohene-Yeboah, General Secretary of the GRTCC, urged all commercial transport operators to display and comply with the new fares at their terminals. “We are asking for the cooperation of the general public, drivers, and all stakeholders to ensure the smooth rollout of this fare adjustment,” he stated.

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among the commuting public, with many expressing concern over the rising cost of living. “Everything is going up – food, rent, and now transport too. It’s becoming harder to manage our monthly budgets,” said Afia, a trader who commutes daily from Madina to Makola.

However, transport operators insist the increase is necessary for their survival. Kwame, a trotro driver at Circle, said, “Fuel prices have gone up, parts are expensive, and roads are damaging our vehicles. This fare increase is long overdue.”