Shippers’ Authority Rolls Out Nationwide Education Campaign Ahead of Axle Load Enforcement
The Ghana Shippers’ Authority (GSA), in partnership with the German development agency Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the Joint Association of Port Transport Unions (JAPTU), has commenced a nationwide sensitisation exercise targeting haulage truck drivers.
The initiative is aimed at preparing stakeholders for the implementation of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Supplementary Act on Axle Load Control.
The campaign, which has already taken place in Takoradi and is being replicated in Kumasi and Tema, follows a policy directive by the Ministry of Roads and Highways regarding the enforcement of axle load regulations.
Initially scheduled to begin in January 2026, the rollout was postponed at the request of the GSA to allow for broader stakeholder consultations and education.
The outreach programme is intended to improve awareness of the policy, encourage compliance among transport operators, and minimise potential tensions between enforcement bodies and industry players.
Speaking at the event, Executive Secretary of JAPTU, Musa Ibrahim, stressed that the exercise goes beyond road safety concerns.
He described the ECOWAS directive as a major step towards harmonising transport regulations across the sub-region and strengthening regional trade.
He added that JAPTU remains committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and trust throughout the implementation process.
A representative of GIZ, James Hammond, also underscored the relevance of the initiative under the GIZ Trade Hub programme, which seeks to boost trade within ECOWAS member states.
He noted that a clear understanding of the regulations would enable drivers to operate smoothly while protecting road infrastructure through adherence to approved load limits.
Representing the Chief Executive Officer of the GSA, Fred Asiedu Dartey, the Head of Freight and Logistics highlighted the importance of collaboration between stakeholders.
He expressed appreciation to GIZ for its continued support and to JAPTU for mobilising its members effectively.
He further pointed out that efficient road transport systems are essential for landlocked countries such as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, adding that improper axle load practices contribute significantly to road damage and safety hazards.
Mrs. Rhoda Djanitey, a Principal Officer at GSA, revealed that under Section 26 of Act 1122 (2024), haulage drivers will be required to register annually at a cost of GH¢250.
Registered operators will be issued certificates authorising them to operate within Ghana and across regional corridors.
She added that formal registration would strengthen institutional support, citing recent interventions to secure the release of detained trucks in Burkina Faso.
Providing technical insights, Elizabeth Ajarquah of the Ghana Highway Authority noted that with over 15,000 kilometres of road network, strict axle load control is crucial given the high cost of infrastructure development and maintenance.
She explained that the ECOWAS framework seeks to standardise vehicle weights, dimensions, penalties, and compliance measures across member states.
The policy will introduce enforcement tools such as anti-tampering technologies, corridor-based weighing systems, and provisions for auctioning unclaimed vehicles after 90 days.
The programme brought together drivers, transport unions, and key industry stakeholders, including representatives from the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority.
Participants expressed optimism that continuous engagement would improve compliance, enhance safety, and promote efficient trade within the sub-region, while also calling for solutions to language barriers affecting cross-border operations.
