In line with this development, the Minister has proposed the establishment of a specialised Electric Vehicle (EV) Capacity Building Centre to train Ghanaian mechanics in the maintenance and repair of electric vehicles being sold on the Ghanaian market.

He said Ghana must begin preparing its technical workforce for the emerging EV industry by equipping mechanics with the specialised knowledge and skills required to diagnose, maintain and repair electric vehicles.

He stressed the need for a concerted national effort to define an appropriate space for the electric-vehicle industry in Ghana, including the development of the human capital required to support its growth.

China’s Electric Truck Revolution

China’s rapid development of electric vehicles is no longer limited to passenger cars.

One of the country’s most significant developments is the growing adoption of electric heavy-duty trucks, particularly in ports, mines, factories and short-haul freight operations.

The shift represents a major change in a sector that has traditionally depended heavily on diesel-powered trucks.

Recent industry data indicate that electric heavy trucks accounted for about 44 per cent of new heavy-truck sales in China in June 2026, although they still represented only about four per cent of the country’s total heavy-truck fleet.

New-energy heavy-truck sales have also been expanding rapidly particularly in the mining industry globally.

An opportunity, management of Longking company said, will push them to stay on top of the EV market.

Already, reports indicate that sales increased by about 45 per cent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026, reaching approximately 44,000 units.

For Ghana, the Minister said development in the sector could be particularly relevant to the mining, haulage and logistics sectors, where heavy-duty vehicles play a critical role in moving minerals, equipment and other commodities.

Battery-swapping driving growth

One of the technologies helping China accelerate the adoption of electric heavy trucks is battery swapping.

Rather than keeping a truck stationary for hours while a large battery is recharged, the vehicle can drive into a specialised battery-swapping station, where an automated system removes the depleted battery and replaces it with a fully charged one.

The system can significantly reduce vehicle downtime, an important consideration for commercial operators whose trucks are expected to remain in service for long periods.

China’s enormous manufacturing capacity for lithium-ion batteries and electric vehicles has also given its manufacturers access to advanced technologies and well-developed supply chains and Ghana has become one of the newest markets.

The capabilities of electric heavy trucks are also improving rapidly.

Newer Chinese models can travel hundreds of kilometres on a single charge, although actual range varies depending on factors such as payload, terrain, weather and driving conditions.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates the current average range of battery-electric trucks at around 300 kilometres, making short-haul operations one of the strongest early markets for the technology.

China’s approach, however, goes beyond manufacturing the vehicles.

The country is simultaneously developing the charging infrastructure, battery-swapping stations and supporting ecosystem required to make electric trucks commercially viable.

For Ghana, Armah-Kofi Buah says, growing Chinese experience presents an opportunity to learn from a rapidly developing EV market while preparing local mechanics, engineers and other technical professionals for the transition.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Friday, July 31, Madam Yang said China’s automotive industry began its transformation about 30 years ago when the government introduced policies to attract leading global manufacturers while building local technical capacity.

“China took the auto industry seriously 30 years ago,” she said.

According to her, the Chinese government encouraged major international car manufacturers, including Toyota and Volkswagen, to establish operations in the country by offering incentives such as free land, tax holidays and access to the domestic market.

The condition was they send their engineers to China to train our engineers, and we give them 15 years tax-free,” she explained.

Madam Yang said China’s emergence as a leading producer of automobiles was the product of long-term planning rather than rapid industrial growth.

It’s like everybody said, ‘Oh wow, how come China’s auto industry got prosperous in one day?’ No, it’s not in one day. It’s 30 years,” she said.

She noted that despite the presence of established global brands in China, the government later shifted its focus towards developing indigenous manufacturers, particularly in response to the country’s dependence on imported oil.

I think it was like 10 years ago, our government came out with a new policy. Because of its energy needs, China was a country in short supply of oil. Our government went to BYD, went to GWM, to Geely, and told them that, okay, you need to have your own technology,” she said.

According to Madam Yang, sustained government support enabled Chinese automakers to develop their own technologies and become globally competitive.

She cited GWM as an example, saying the company invested heavily in research and innovation to develop proprietary hybrid vehicle technology while producing affordable, high-quality vehicles.

Look now, he has all his own technology. GWM has been dominating the Chinese market for 17 years. It was also because the price is nearly half that of Toyota or VW. That is so affordable and quality,” she added.

The Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, announced the allocation during the presentation of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review in Parliament on Thursday, July 23.

He said the investment will be used to strengthen the fleets of state-owned transport companies, including Metro Mass Transit (MMT) and the State Transport Company (STC), as part of efforts to provide safer, more reliable, and affordable transport services for commuters.

According to Dr. Ato Forson, the intervention is part of government’s broader plan to improve urban mobility by increasing access to efficient mass transportation systems, especially on routes with high commuter demand.

Government is reallocating GH¢400 million for the acquisition of high-occupancy buses to strengthen the fleets of state-owned transport companies, including Metro Mass Transit andthe State Transport Company (STC)” he said.

He explained that the introduction of additional high-occupancy buses will help reduce the long queues experienced by passengers at bus terminals during peak periods and improve service reliability on urban and intercity routes.

The Finance Minister added that expanding the public transport fleet will provide commuters with a more dependable alternative to private vehicles and help reduce congestion on major roads.

Government is committed to improving urban mobility and providing safe, reliable, and affordable public transport for Ghanaians,”he added.

He noted that strengthening public transport infrastructure is critical to building a more efficient transportation system capable of meeting the growing mobility needs of Ghanaians.

The facility, operated in partnership with VITO S-Class Services Ltd., forms part of the Authority’s broader strategy to decentralise its operations, reduce congestion at existing offices and improve access to efficient public services across the country.

Speaking at the commissioning on Thursday July 23, 2026 , Chief Executive of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, said the opening of the Dome facility brings to 23 the number of new DVLA offices commissioned within the past one-and-a-half years.

According to him, residents of Dome have for years had to travel considerable distances to access basic DVLA services, a situation the new Ultra Center is expected to address.

What we are commissioning is more than a facility. It is a statement of institutional intent: proximity to government services should not be a privilege reserved for those near regional capitals,” he said.

Kotey said the facility had been deliberately designed to provide customers with orderly processes, reduced waiting times, courteous service and an environment that respects their time.

He noted that the physical expansion of the DVLA’s service network is being pursued alongside a digital transformation agenda aimed at improving efficiency and strengthening road safety.

The Authority, he added, is also deepening collaboration with the Motor Traffic and Transport Department and other regulatory institutions to ensure that drivers are properly licensed and vehicles operating on Ghana’s roads meet the required roadworthiness standards.

Kotey charged staff assigned to the new Center to uphold professionalism and integrity, stressing that while infrastructure provides the platform for service delivery, the quality of service ultimately depends on the people operating the facility.

He also urged residents of Dome and surrounding communities to make full use of the Center and hold the Authority accountable to the service standards it has promised.

Chief Executive Officer of VITO S-Class Services Ltd., Jacqueline Oppong Mensah, commended Mr Kotey for his leadership and vision in expanding access to DVLA services through partnerships with private sector organisations.

She said the Ultra Center initiative was helping to bring public services closer to communities while reducing the activities of middlemen and creating employment opportunities for young people.

Oppong Mensah said the Dome facility would reduce travel time for motorists, improve convenience and contribute to economic activity and road safety within the area and surrounding communities.

As a vehicle inspection company, we at VITO S-Class Services Ltd. understand the critical role that effective vehicle inspection plays in ensuring that the vehicles on our roads meet the required safety standards. Every properly inspected vehicle contributes to safer roads, protects lives and strengthens confidence in our transportation system,” she said.

This was particularly significant at the Weija SCC–Atala stretch, causing severe traffic congestion and major inconvenience to commuters.

The flooding submerged sections of the highway and deposited thick layers of silt across the roadway, leaving several vehicles stranded and reducing traffic movement to a crawl.

Commuters who would ordinarily spend about five minutes traversing the stretch were forced to endure journeys lasting more than two hours.

The situation became more critical after both the eastbound and Accra-bound lanes were rendered impassable. Motorists were compelled to merge onto the westbound carriageway, resulting in chaotic traffic conditions and bumper-to-bumper queues stretching more than five kilometres.

JoyNews reporter Maxwell Agbagba, who visited the scene, observed several vehicles stuck in the silt-covered road while drivers struggled to navigate the flooded section.

“One vehicle has been stuck in the silt on this road for more than an hour as efforts are made to get assistance to move it. The flooding has created massive traffic congestion, with bumper-to-bumper queues stretching over five kilometres. What is usually a short five-minute drive for commuters has now turned into a journey lasting more than two hours,” he reported.

According to him, nearly a kilometre of the eastbound section of the highway was submerged, with floodwaters and debris making the road virtually inaccessible.

“The eastbound and Accra-bound lanes have been completely blocked, forcing vehicles to merge onto the westbound side. This has created chaotic scenes on the stretch,” he added.

The latest flooding incident has renewed concerns about the recurring nature of floods along the Weija corridor and the effectiveness of long-term drainage interventions being undertaken in the area.

A motorist identified only as Prince appealed to government to expedite approval of funding for the completion of the project.

He explained that while portions of the drainage project have been completed around Barrier, Atala and the SCC area, significant sections remain unfinished.

The new drains that have been completed are working, but much of the project is yet to be done. Before the floodwater reaches the completed drains, it has already caused damage because there are still kilometres left to be constructed,” he noted.

He urged the public not to blame contractors for the flooding, stressing that work remains ongoing.

Meanwhile, many motorists trapped in the congestion appeared frustrated and increasingly impatient as traffic remained at a standstill for hours.

As of Tuesday morning, the long queues of vehicles extended beyond visible points on both ends of the affected stretch, highlighting the scale of disruption caused by the flooding.

The directive comes in the wake of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission approving a dedicated electricity tariff of GH¢2.016 per kilowatt-hour for public EV charging, effective April 1, 2026. The move is seen as a significant step toward formalising Ghana’s emerging electric mobility sector.

Addressing Parliament’s Assurance Committee on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, Jinapor clarified the division of responsibilities between sectors, noting that while transport policy falls under the Ministry of Transport, electricity supply and grid stability remain the mandate of the Energy Ministry.

He expressed concern about the growing electricity demand driven by EV adoption, particularly in urban centres, warning that unregulated charging infrastructure could strain the power grid.

To address this, the Minister revealed that a Legislative Instrument has already been developed to enforce strict approval processes for the establishment of EV charging stations.

According to him, prospective operators will need clearance through the Energy Commission to ensure proper planning around grid capacity, charging demand, and tariff structures.

Jinapor stressed that the regulation is essential to prevent localized spikes in electricity consumption and to safeguard infrastructure such as transformers from being overloaded.

He explained that the approval process will enable authorities to assess whether specific areas can support additional charging facilities, including evaluating the type of vehicles to be served and the technical capacity of the grid.

The Minister added that these measures are aimed at ensuring the sustainable integration of electric vehicles into Ghana’s energy system without compromising power reliability.

According to the chief, the introduction of Metro Mass buses in the municipality would significantly enhance access to reliable transportation, facilitate the movement of goods and people, and help reduce post-harvest losses among farmers.

Ohempong Dr. Asiamah made the appeal during a courtesy call on the Managing Director of MMTL, Kale Cezar, where he highlighted the transport challenges faced by residents, particularly farmers who struggle to move produce to major markets due to the absence of a reliable commercial transport system.

He explained that the lack of organised transport services continues to result in financial losses for farmers and traders, as large quantities of farm produce often go to waste before reaching the market.

The Paramount Chief expressed optimism that the introduction of Metro Mass services in the area would support the agricultural sector, ease the movement of goods and services, and improve the economic prospects of the municipality.

He also commended the leadership of the company and encouraged management to continue their efforts to transform the national transport sector in line with government development goals.

Responding to the appeal, the Managing Director of Metro Mass Transit Limited, Kale Cezar, briefed the chief on several challenges he encountered upon assuming office and the measures introduced to improve operations.

He indicated that the company has implemented a number of reforms, including salary adjustments, improved staff welfare, and incentive packages aimed at boosting employee morale and operational efficiency.

Cezar also revealed that the company is expecting a new fleet of buses, with the first batch scheduled to arrive by the end of March 2026, while additional units are expected in the following months to support route expansion.

He assured the Paramount Chief that the company is committed not only to operating buses along the Atebubu route but also to establishing a full branch office in the municipality to serve Atebubu and its surrounding communities.

In addition, Metro Mass plans to introduce cargo vehicles to assist farmers and traders in transporting agricultural produce and other goods safely and efficiently.

The initiative, he said, is intended to strengthen the agricultural value chain in the area while improving the economic well-being of residents.

Metro Mass Transit Limited is a state-owned public transport company that provides safe, reliable, and affordable transportation services across Ghana and continues to expand its network to support national development and economic growth.

The group, founded by Gabriel Agambila, views the initiative as a critical step toward generating revenue for road maintenance and new infrastructure projects.

In a statement, Agambila, who leads Alagumgube Global, expressed alignment with the President’s vision, which emphasizes technology-driven toll collection for greater efficiency, transparency, and accountability.

To enhance the proposed toll system, Alagumgube is advocating for the implementation of an EZ-Pass-style electronic tolling mechanism before toll booths reopen. The group recommends linking all vehicle number plates directly to owners’ credit or debit cards (or mobile money accounts), enabling automatic deductions upon passing through toll points. This would streamline payments and reduce opportunities for mismanagement.

Linking number plates to financial accounts would ensure funds are directly channeled back into the system for road maintenance and construction, boosting the entire road sector,” Agambila stated.

To accommodate international vehicles whose accounts may not be integrated into the local system, the association proposes reserving a dedicated single lane at toll booths for trucks and cars from foreign countries.

Alagumgube stressed that failing to adopt such a transparent, automated system risks repeating past issues where toll revenues disproportionately benefited a few individuals rather than the nation as a whole.

The group also called for a portion of toll proceeds to support key regional infrastructure, including the maintenance of the Suyani Airport and the completion of the Bolgatanga Airport project—initiatives previously advanced by Alagumgube itself. The association reiterated its readiness to collaborate with government agencies in implementing these programs.

Concerns Over Energy Waste by Public Officials

In addition to infrastructure advocacy, Alagumgube raised alarms about wasteful energy practices among some government appointees. The group criticized officials who leave vehicle engines running for extended periods during events or even while seated in offices, likening the behavior to “descending from Iceland” in disregard for their origins and resource constraints.

There should be no issue with texting your driver five or ten minutes before departure to start the engine,” the statement noted. Alagumgube argued that such habits mirror past abuses, such as misuse of fuel coupons by officials’ associates, and urged greater accountability.

Call for Solar Adoption and Office Energy Discipline

The association’s final concern targeted office energy wastage, particularly employees leaving air conditioners running overnight, over weekends, or after leaving for home. This practice, especially prevalent in government buildings, leads to unnecessary expenditure.

Alagumgube expressed strong support for government institutions transitioning to solar energy to cut costs and promote sustainability. The group encouraged stricter enforcement of turning off devices when offices are unoccupied.

Transportation accounts for nearly half of Ghana’s energy-related emissions, with levels rising 15% between 2015 and 2023 due to fossil fuel dependence, ageing vehicles, and urbanization. Air pollution costs Ghana’s economy $3 billion annually, or 4% of GDP, and is the second leading cause of deaths.

The JET Programme outlined priority actions for Ghana: fast-track approval of the revised Ghana Automotive Development Policy, support asset-based vehicle financing, and prioritize government procurement of locally assembled vehicles. This could deliver cleaner air, safer roads, skilled jobs, and reduced emissions.

Ghana’s automotive sector has the potential to be a powerful driver of clean energy transition, industrial growth and job creation,” said Terri Sarch, Development Director at the British High Commission in Accra.

Ghana has 3.2 million vehicles, with 80% of imports being used vehicles over a decade old. Electric vehicle uptake is increasing, but transitioning to a modern fleet remains slow. The Ghana Automotive Development Policy has attracted $98 million in investments, but domestic demand for new vehicles is low.

Accelerating clean transport could help Ghana meet its 2030 emission reduction target and improve public health. The International Day of Clean Energy aims to raise awareness and mobilize action for a just transition to clean energy

Director of Driver Training, Testing and Licensing at DVLA, Kafui Semevo, explained that the digital onboarding exercise is aimed at verifying ownership of manually registered vehicles while preventing uncustomed vehicles from being captured in the system.

According to Kafui Semevo, vehicle owners will be required to personally visit DVLA offices or other designated centres with their vehicles, registration documents, customs declaration forms and Ghana Card for biometric verification.

He urged vehicle owners who are yet to be enrolled on the DVLA’s digital platform to take advantage of the exercise, noting that successful onboarding will enable them to obtain a title certificate and an electronic registration card.

Kafui Semevo added that these documents will become mandatory when the new licence plate policy is fully rolled out.

The onboarding process itself, verifying the documents, verifying the vehicle and saying it is okay in our records, you don’t pay for it. But the bio-data verification is at a cost, which is GHȼ25. Now, we are not charging you for the card and then the certificate of title now because if we do that, your title and then your card will come out with the existing number.

“It means that if you came back after the commencement of the new regime, what will happen is that you will be paying for another card, which we don’t want to do. So you, at this point, just pay for the verification and then when we start the new system, you can obtain your title with a new number and the certificate also with a new number, which I think is fair,” he said at press conference.

Kafui Semevo also clarified that vehicles registered between January 2022 and December 2023 are not yet included in the onboarding process, and owners of such vehicles have been advised to wait until the DVLA officially invites them to participate.