Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has commissioned the first batch of 100 brand-new buses for Metro Mass Transit Limited as part of government’s efforts to improve public transportation, reduce congestion and support economic activity across the country.
The commissioning ceremony, held in Accra on Friday May 22, formed part of a larger initiative to supply 300 new 29-seater buses to Metro Mass Transit Limited (MMTL).
Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, the Vice President expressed excitement about the arrival of the buses, describing the investment as a major step toward strengthening Ghana’s transport sector.
“Today, we present 100 of the 300 brand-new 29-seater buses for Metro Mass Transit Limited. I think we are all happy about this,” she said.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang stressed that an efficient transport system remains critical to national development, noting that reliable transportation enables the smooth movement of people, goods and services while supporting economic growth.
According to her, the government is committed to reducing dependence on unsafe, unreliable and expensive transport options by expanding access to quality public transportation services.
She explained that the newly commissioned buses would significantly increase MMTL’s carrying capacity, improve connectivity to more communities and ease pressure on existing transport systems.
“These buses will increase carrying capacity, extend service to more communities, reduce pressure on commuters and provide them with a more dignified experience,” she stated.
The Vice President added that the buses were designed with passenger comfort and safety in mind and are also fuel-efficient, making them suitable for modern public transport operations.
She emphasized that government expects future transport procurements to promote greater local participation through increased local content, job creation and skills development for Ghanaian engineers and technicians.
“My hope is that as we go forward, at least in Ghana, we will produce one or two of the parts that come together to form the bus,” she noted.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang further charged the management of MMTL to ensure proper maintenance, efficient scheduling and professionalism in the deployment of the buses.
She expressed satisfaction that all operational requirements for the buses had already been completed, including registration, licensing, insurance, inspection and branding ahead of deployment.
The Vice President indicated that the initiative aligns with the government’s broader development agenda aimed at improving infrastructure, creating jobs and stimulating economic activity.
She disclosed that the buses would also support night transport services, particularly for shift workers and late-night businesses in urban areas, with safety considerations and route planning to be guided by demand data and commuter feedback.
“These buses will be deployed to support night operations, shift workers and late-night economic activity in our urban areas,” she said.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang commended the management and staff of MMTL for their efforts in ensuring the successful delivery of the project and urged them to rise to the challenge of effective execution.
“The next test is execution and I have no doubt that you will rise to the occasion,” she maintained.
By 1960news.com
