Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia on Wednesday launched “Go Ride,” a new digital ride-hailing platform designed specifically for local taxi drivers in Ghana.
The app, developed through a government-backed public-private partnership, aims to provide local drivers with online access to customers, similar to popular international services like Uber, Bolt, and Yango.
The introduction of Go Ride is expected to empower members of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and local taxi operators, enabling them to compete more effectively in the digital ride-hailing space.
Lower commissions and driver benefits
One of Go Ride’s standout features is its competitive 10% commission rate for drivers, significantly lower than the fees charged by foreign ride-hailing platforms. This reduced rate allows drivers to retain more of their earnings.
Vice-President Bawumia also highlighted a welfare component built into the initiative, which includes an insurance and pension scheme aimed at providing long-term financial stability for drivers.
“This represents a symbol of empowerment, innovation, and local pride,” said Dr. Bawumia. “It shows our commitment to harnessing digital technology for inclusive development.”
Building a sustainable transport system
Dr. Bawumia emphasized that the Go Ride platform aligns with the government’s vision to create a more inclusive and equitable transport system.
It will bridge the formal and informal sectors, promoting sustainable livelihoods and fostering a dignified future for Ghanaian drivers.
The Vice-President also attributed the success of Go Ride’s development to Ghana’s expanding digital infrastructure, citing initiatives like the Ghana Card, QR Code, Digital Address System, and Ghana.Gov as foundational elements for economic growth.
He pointed out that international ride-hailing services like Uber hold a market value of $163 billion, and expressed optimism that Ghana could capitalize on the global digital economy through similar innovations.
Potential for regional expansion
Looking forward, Dr. Bawumia expressed hopes that the Go Ride app would expand to other African countries, potentially bringing foreign exchange earnings to Ghana. “We hope to soon export the Go Ride app to other African nations, securing additional economic benefits for Ghana,” he said.
Support from transport ministry
Deputy Minister of Transport, Mr. Hassan Tampuli, described Go Ride as a “game-changer” for Ghana’s economic development, emphasizing that it offers financial stability for local drivers.
He also addressed recent calls from driver unions for higher transport fares, arguing that Ghana’s fuel prices are among the lowest in the sub-region and urging transport stakeholders to support Go Ride.
The launch of Go Ride marks a significant step in Ghana’s ongoing digital transformation, positioning local drivers to benefit from the rise of digital solutions in transport.
