The leadership of the motor riders popularly known in Ghana as Okada Riders Association plans to present a petition to the Ministry of Transport next Monday, urging a reconsideration of the emissions levy.
Majid Amidu, the Secretary of the Okada Riders Association, highlighted concerns about the levy’s high charges during an interview with Citi News, prompting their decision to seek government intervention.
Implemented under the Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112), the levy targets carbon dioxide equivalent emissions from internal combustion engine vehicles and officially commenced yesterday. The levy’s structure varies based on the vehicle type and engine capacity. Motorcycles and tricycles face an annual levy of GH₵75, while motor vehicles, buses, and coaches with engine capacities up to 3000 cubic centimeters must remit GH₵150 per annum.
Vehicles exceeding 3000 cubic centimeters, including motor vehicles, buses, coaches, cargo trucks, and articulated trucks, are obligated to pay GH₵300 annually. Amid concerns over the perceived financial burden imposed by the emissions levy, the Okada Riders Association seeks to engage the Ministry of Transport, advocating for a reduction in the levy amount.
In their forthcoming petition, the Okada Riders Association aims to convey their members’ sentiments regarding the levy’s impact on their livelihoods. They assert that the current levy rates are disproportionately high, particularly for motorcycle and tricycle operators, and could adversely affect their ability to sustain their businesses
