The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has engaged stakeholders in the North East Region at the Regional Coordinating Council to raise awareness and educate them on the new vehicle number plate system.
The engagement emphasized the importance of the new system and encouraged citizens to register their vehicles.
During the meeting, DVLA officials provided a detailed overview of the history and rationale behind the evolving changes in vehicle number plates.
They highlighted the key features of the new number plates, emphasizing the enhanced security measures designed to prevent counterfeiting, improve vehicle identification, and enhance overall security.
The justifications for the new vehicle registration number format were clearly outlined as follows
1. To create a more credible and updated vehicle registration database.
2. To prevent the registration of stolen and uncustomed vehicles.
3. To accurately identify vehicle owners.
4. To improve public safety and security.
5. To conform to international best practices.
The DVLA also addressed common concerns and misconceptions surrounding the new number plates, clarifying the registration process. They stressed that the new system aims to streamline vehicle identification, thereby assisting law enforcement in combating vehicle related crimes.
Stakeholders from various sectors, including transport unions, security agencies, local government officials, the media and civil society organizations, participated in the engagement. The forum facilitated open dialogue, enabling stakeholders to express their concerns and seek clarification on the new policies.
In a significant announcement, the DVLA declared its readiness to establish a regional office in the North East Region. This decision comes in response to the challenges faced by vehicle owners who previously had to travel to other regions for vehicle registration.
According to some vehicle owners, the absence of DVLA registration centers in the region has been a major impediment to vehicle registration. The establishment of the new regional office is expected to significantly improve accessibility and convenience for vehicle owners in the North East region, thereby promoting increased compliance with vehicle registration regulations.
The Director for Registration at DVLA, Kafui has called on all citizens and vehicle owners currently using the old number plates to seize the opportunity and re-register their vehicles within the stipulated timeframe. He has further implored all Ghanaians to cooperate with the DVLA to ensure the successful implementation of the exercise.
By Solomon Kwame Kanaluwe
