Ghana previously managed efficient public bus systems. These systems allowed for predictable daily travel for residents. However, these once-reliable services have significantly deteriorated over time.
Dr David Ofosu-Dorte, Senior Partner at AB & David Law Africa, highlighted this decline. He spoke at the JoyNews and Amalgam of Professional Bodies Speaker Series. The event on May 6 focused on better urban management for economic growth. Dr Ofosu-Dorte recalled a time when commuting in Accra was swift. He said he could reach destinations in 15 minutes. This allowed him to be at his classes by 8:00 a.m. reliably.
This stands in stark contrast to today's urban travel. Commuters now face delays and congestion daily. Structured scheduling for public transport is also limited. The decrease in organized mass transit is a key factor pushing more people to use private cars. This shift increases road congestion and reduces overall urban efficiency.
Restoring effective mass transit is crucial for improving city life. It is also vital for boosting productivity in Ghana's urban centers. Dr Ofosu-Dorte stressed the need for renewed investment in these systems. He suggested that better urban mobility directly supports economic activity.
The degradation of public transport is not a new issue. Years of underinvestment and policy challenges have contributed to this state. Urban populations in Ghana have grown rapidly. This growth puts further strain on existing infrastructure. Without efficient alternatives, more people buy cars. This leads to more traffic, longer travel times, and increased fuel consumption. The economic cost of lost productivity due to bad transport is substantial.
Other experts have also pointed to planning challenges. Issues like poor land use and inadequate infrastructure development exacerbate these problems. A cohesive strategy is needed to revive Ghana's public transport networks. This would involve significant capital investment. It would also require strong governmental commitment to public sector efficiency. The future economic prosperity of Ghanaian cities depends on solving this transport puzzle.