News
The ‘misfortune’ of using trotro as a means of transport
“Trotro” is a converted lorry or van used as public transport for commercial purposes. In Ghana, it serves as a means of transport for majority of the populace but the question is; does this means of transport provide comfort for the user? This write-up is aimed at answering this pertinent question. The rate at which ‘trotros’ create discomfort in the country is very alarming. Some of the ‘trotros’ that ply our roads on daily basis are very old and rickety and sometimes spoil in the middle of the journey.
Many of the accidents that occur on our roads can squarely be placed on the doorstep of faulty vehicles that ply our roads especially ‘trotros’. This is something that the appropriate authorities must look at critically before it completely gets out of hand.
Another issue with the ‘trotros’ is the fume that emanates from them to cause air pollution, a situation that poses a serious threat to the health of passers-by as well as people who patronise these vehicles.
Also deserving a special mention is the number of ‘trotos’ that ply our roads on daily basis. The number is so huge that it creates serious traffic situation which becomes unbearable. It is no wonder that users of this means of transport are sometimes unable to get to their destinations on time.
Some ‘trotro’ conductors popularly called ‘mates’ in Ghana also take undue advantage of the increase in petrol prices to charge high fares.
Overloading is also another issue that requires a special mention. Even in times of this COVID-19 pandemic, ‘trotro’ drivers have thrown all the safety cautions to the dogs and load as many passengers as they please, exposing passengers to contract the virus.
Speeding is also another problem that has bedeviled the ‘trusted’ means of transport in the country. It is sometimes a sorry sight to behold when drivers drive at such high speed posing danger to passengers. Passengers who gather courase to challenge this unruly behaviour are tagged and described in unprintable words. It is not surprising that accidents have become the new normal in Ghana.
It is the candid opinion of this writer that, as a matter of urgency, if this problem is not dealt with, many people will be consumed by road accident.
MAJORINE NUEKUOR TETTEH
Level 300
Ghana Institute of Journalism
Email: tettehmajorine1@gmail.com
President John Dramani Mahama has arrived in Libreville, Gabon, to participate in the inaugural Libreville International Forum for Innovation and Development, a high-level event that brings together Heads of State, government officials, global investors, and technology experts.
The forum, being held under the patronage of Mr Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, President of the Republic of Gabon, is on the theme “Political Stability, Business Climate, and Artificial Intelligence: Catalysts for Growth.”
The forum seeks to position Gabon as a regional innovation hub and key destination for international investment.
Organisers are holding the Forum to inaugurate the newly constructed Omar Bongo Ondimba Congress Centre, which also serves as the venue for the Forum and as a future centre for international dialogue.
The forum will culminate in the “Libreville Declaration,” which will showcase the strategic political leaders’ commitments to enhancing governance, transparency, and digital integration across the continent.
President Mahama remains a strong advocate for fostering partnerships that bridge the gap between government policy and private-sector growth to ensure inclusive development.
Former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko has informed the New Patriotic Party’s 2028 flagbearer, Mahamudu Bawumia, of his decision to contest for the position of National Chairman of the party.
Mr. Agyarko disclosed this during a courtesy call on Dr. Bawumia on May Day.
According to a statement from his team, the visit gave him the opportunity to commend the former Vice President for his service to both the New Patriotic Party and the country.
During the meeting, Mr. Agyarko, together with members of his campaign team, formally notified Dr. Bawumia of his planned nationwide tour as part of his campaign for the National Chairman position.
He reaffirmed his support for the former Vice President and stressed the need for unity within the party ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Mr. Agyarko said the NPP must remain united and committed to securing victory in the next elections.
According to the statement, his nationwide tour is expected to begin in the Ashanti Region next week.
By: Jacob Aggrey
