Fuel Price Increases Prompt Commercial Drivers to Advocate for 10% Transport Fare Rise

The recent rise in fuel prices has reignited discussions about potential increases in transport fares, particularly among drivers in Accra who are leading the charge.

They are calling on the leadership of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and other transport unions to announce a fare increase.

Drivers argue that the hike in fuel prices is eating into their profit margins, making it difficult for them to meet their financial obligations and support their families.

They also highlight that the cost of spare parts and other operational necessities has escalated, compounding their financial challenges.

“Sometimes we go home empty-handed because you can’t say you won’t buy fuel. Once you’ve operated the vehicle, the owner expects their share of earnings. If you want to continue using the vehicle, you have to refill the tank. After doing all this and not making anything for yourself.

“We appeal to the main union to raise fares so we can bridge that gap. If they increase by 20 or 15%, we’ll manage, even 10% would help,” Kwabena Kakraba, a taxi driver at the Adabraka Cooperative Society station, told Citi Business News.

While the situation isn’t uniform across all stations visited by Citi Business News, some taxi drivers in Tesano have already begun adjusting their fares. Drivers who previously charged GH₵10 for short distances now insist on GH₵15.

“Short trips used to cost GH₵10, but due to fuel price hikes, it’s now GH₵15. If we don’t adjust, we can’t cover our costs. Even spare parts are becoming more expensive. Used tires now go for GH₵250. We have to consider all these factors, or else we’ll operate at a loss,” said Kwaku Abban Abaidoo.

Commuters are urging authorities to address issues related to fuel price increases to avoid further challenges.

“What we’re asking is that whenever there’s a fuel price hike, they should think about us, the citizens,” said Emmanuel Martey.

Citi Business News understands that the Concerned Drivers Union will begin addressing issues related to fuel price increases and their impact on transport fares starting July 8.

In the initial pricing window of July, recent fuel price increases saw petrol selling at GH₵14.80 per litre, with diesel costing consumers GH₵14.92 per litre at major oil marketing companies such as Shell and Goil.