MetroMass buses to flood key routes – Kwakye Ofosu

Minister for Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu says MetroMass buses will be deployed to key routes to ease transport costs.

Addressing journalists after an emergency Cabinet meeting on Thursday, he indicated that the Transport Minister has been directed to urgently roll out the newly acquired buses across high-traffic corridors.

“The transport minister has been instructed to ensure expedited deployment of these buses in high traffic corridors,” he stated, stressing the urgency of the intervention.

According to him, the move forms part of broader government efforts to cushion commuters following recent fuel price increases.

He added that the buses will be strategically deployed to areas where passenger demand is highest, especially during peak hours.

Kwakye Ofosu disclosed that 100 MetroMass buses have already arrived in the country, with additional deliveries expected later in the year. Another 100 buses are scheduled to arrive in August, while a final batch of 100 is expected in November, bringing the total to 300.

He emphasised that beyond availability, affordability remains central to the policy.

“The transport minister has also been charged with ensuring that these MetroMass buses charge or maintain transport fares which are lower than what private sector operators charge,” he said.

The intervention comes as Ghana grapples with rising fuel prices driven by global market disruptions.

Escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran have significantly impacted oil supply chains, particularly after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

The disruption has pushed global crude prices above $100 per barrel, increasing import costs for Ghana and contributing to higher fuel prices at the pumps.

The National Petroleum Authority has since adjusted price benchmarks to reflect these elevated costs.

In addition to the transport measures, Cabinet has also directed the Finance and Energy ministers to take steps to reduce fuel prices through the removal of some taxes and margins.

Kwakye Ofosu noted that this policy will take effect in the next pricing window and will be reviewed after an initial four-week period.

“These measures are to ensure that Ghanaians are cushioned, especially during peak periods,” he added, highlighting government’s effort to ease both transport and fuel-related pressures.