The Motorcycle Couriers Union has voiced its opposition to the government’s decision to enforce a 25-year minimum age requirement for commercial motorcycle and tricycle riders, a move outlined under Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (LI 2180).

The union, which represents thousands of delivery riders across the country, warns that if the regulation is enforced without revision, it could leave many young riders jobless — especially those between 18 and 24 years who rely on courier services for their livelihood.

In an interview with Citi News, the union’s General Secretary, Timothy Abugri, stressed that the law was drafted and passed without meaningful consultation with the courier sector.

“We were not consulted in the preparation of the LI. There are important aspects of this regulation we believe would have been different had we been involved,” Abugri explained.

Beyond the age limit, the union also raised concerns about the requirement for formal training and certification before riders can operate legally under the new rule. Abugri urged the government to allow the union to collaborate on training programs before enforcement begins, to prevent mass arrests and job losses.

“If police officers begin enforcing the law immediately, many of our members will be sidelined because they haven’t been trained or certified yet,” he added.

“We’re appealing to the government to engage us for dialogue so this law enhances safety without destroying livelihoods.”

The union is calling for an urgent stakeholder meeting to revise the regulation, arguing that lowering the age limit to 18 years — combined with robust training and certification — would strike a fairer balance between safety and economic survival.

💡 Key Takeaway:

The Motorcycle Couriers Union is urging the government to reconsider its new 25-year minimum age requirement for commercial riders, citing fears of unemployment for young couriers and requesting more inclusive consultations.