Commercial transport operators in Ghana have strongly opposed a directive by the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) banning the use of Toyota Voxy vehicles for commercial purposes, warning that the decision could undermine their livelihoods.
In a press statement dated April 8, 2026, the operators described the directive as misguided, arguing that a blanket ban is not an effective solution to road safety challenges.
“The decision to ban the Toyota Voxy for commercial purposes is a lazy and ill-conceived approach,” the group stated, calling on the NRSA to reconsider its position and engage key stakeholders within the transport sector.
According to the operators, the Toyota Voxy remains a reliable and widely used vehicle among commercial drivers, and the ban could negatively impact many individuals and families who depend on it for their daily income.
They further urged the Authority to focus on practical measures such as driver education and training, including the organisation of road safety programmes to improve driving standards. The group also recommended targeted interventions in accident-prone areas and increased attention to poor road infrastructure, which they believe plays a significant role in road crashes.
The concerns follow the NRSA’s announcement declaring the use of Toyota Voxy vehicles for commercial transport illegal, citing safety and regulatory issues. The Authority noted that many of the vehicles are right-hand-drive and do not comply with Ghana’s road regulations. It also raised concerns about substandard steering conversions and emphasised that the vehicles were not originally designed for commercial use.
Despite these explanations, the operators argue that the directive highlights a disconnect between regulators and realities within the transport industry, and they have vowed to take action to safeguard the interests of their members.
