The National Commercial Tricycle Riders Union has called on the government to subsidise the cost of licensing for commercial tricycle operators, citing the high financial burden on riders.

Currently set at GHS1,500, the licensing fee is considered unaffordable by many operators.

In Kasoa in the Central Region, tricycles serve as a crucial mode of transportation and a primary source of income for many residents. One such rider, single mother Dorris Aubrey, depends on her tricycle business to support her household and pay her children’s school fees.

Operating without a licence, however, exposes riders like Dorris to frequent police harassment and disruptions to their work.

The National Chairman of the union, Mustapha Ibrahim, commended the government for legalising commercial tricycle operations but noted that the licensing cost remains out of reach for a significant number of riders.

He appealed for government intervention to reduce the fee, saying subsidisation would enhance compliance, improve safety, and protect both operators and passengers.

Mr Ibrahim also disclosed that the union is seeking government support to secure designated terminals across the country, following persistent disputes with metropolitan and municipal authorities.