The Metro Mass Transit Limited has commissioned 100 new Isuzu buses as part of efforts to modernize the country’s public transport system and restore confidence in mass transit services across the country.
The buses were commissioned at a ceremony in Accra on Friday May 22, by the Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang with the Managing Director of Metro Mass Transit (MMT) describing the acquisition as a major milestone in the government’s transport transformation agenda.
Addressing dignitaries at the event, the Managing Director, Mr Kale Cezar, said the new fleet reflects the government’s commitment to improving public transportation, promoting 24-hour transport services, and supporting free transportation initiatives for elderly citizens.
He noted that the administration of President John Dramani Mahama had tasked the current management to reposition MMT and expand access to reliable transport services, particularly for underserved communities.
“Today marks a significant moment in the history of Metro Mass Transit,” he said, adding that the buses formed part of a broader strategy to overhaul the company into a modern and efficient public transport operator.
According to him, the newly commissioned buses are the first batch of 300 Isuzu buses expected under a larger fleet expansion programme aimed at improving mobility for millions of Ghanaians.
The Managing Director disclosed that MMT was in a dire operational state when the current administration assumed office. Out of a total fleet of 861 buses, only 136 were operational, while 227 were completely unserviceable.
He said the company had also been burdened with ageing fleets, mounting maintenance costs, legacy debts, and shortages of technical staff, leaving only about 115 buses available for daily operations.
Despite the challenges, he praised the government and the Ministry of Transport for facilitating engagements with international and local financiers to secure the buses.
He further highlighted ongoing transformation measures, including strategic partnerships with private firms to improve fleet acquisition, maintenance, and after-sales support.
The Managing Director revealed that MMT intends to deepen collaboration with suppliers to explore local assembly opportunities and technical skills development for Ghanaian workers in line with the government’s industrialisation agenda.
He also announced plans for public-private partnerships to redevelop transport terminals and modernize operational infrastructure to improve efficiency and service delivery.
According to him, the expansion programme is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs for drivers, mechanics, technicians, and other support staff within the transport sector.
The ceremony was attended by government officials, transport sector stakeholders, and management and staff of Metro Mass Transit.
By Evelyn Tengmaa
