We Have No Agreement with Transport Unions to Increase Transport Fare – Transport Minister

The Minister of Transport Hon. Joseph Abukari Nikpe has stated that there is no agreement between the Ministry of Transport and transport unions on any increase in transport fares. He noted that while unions have submitted proposals, negotiations on the matter have concluded for now.

The Minister make this known at the end of two days seminar for Ghana Transport Sector Strategic Review Retreat at Ho in an interview following the announcement made by the Ghana Private Roads Transport Union GPRTU said to start on June 2 2026 in Ho

The increment, which affects intra-city 'trotro' services, inter-city transport and shared taxi operations nationwide, was announced by the GPRTU and allied transport groups on Friday, May 29, after consultations with their members and stakeholders.

The transport operators explained that the fare adjustment had become unavoidable due to the persistent rise in fuel prices and the increasing cost of vehicle maintenance components, including tyres, batteries, engine oil and other essential spare parts.

Minister however emphasized that no single party has the authority to unilaterally adjust fares in the country. “We do not unilaterally increase fares. We do it collectively,” he said. He explained that an existing arrangement requires all fare increases or reductions to be negotiated between the Ministry of Transport and all transport unions before implementation.

Speaking on the ongoing discussions, the Minister said the Ministry had extensive conversations with the unions throughout the week. He acknowledged the challenge of speaking publicly before negotiations are concluded, noting that premature comments as sector minister can lead to loss of interest or confidence from stakeholders.

He assured Ghanaians that talks with all transport unions are still ongoing and no increment has been agreed on at this time. “We are still talking with all the transport unions, and we have not agreed on any increment for now. They should be patient, and we are working with the transport unions,” he stated.

The Minister added that he had conversations with union leaders earlier in the day, even while attending other programs. “You may have noticed me stepping out with my phone they are calling, I am calling, and we are still talking. There is no interim agreement for now,” he said.

He appealed to the public to disregard claims of an approved fare increase and urged Ghanaians to be part of the process.