Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, also the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, has inaugurated Ghana’s first fleet of electric buses, signalling a transformative shift in the nation's public transportation system. 

The launch event, held in Accra on Wednesday, marked the debut of environmentally friendly and cost-efficient electric buses, a first for Ghana.

The buses, which operate via electric charging systems instead of fuel, are expected to significantly reduce transportation costs while offering a cleaner alternative for urban mobility. 

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Bawumia described the introduction of the buses as a historic moment that embodies a "mindset of possibility" and aligns Ghana with global best practices in sustainability and innovation.

“Today, we are making history with the commissioning of these electric buses. It represents a visionary shift in how we approach public transport. Today, we are taking a definitive step towards revolutionising the transport sector with sustainability and innovation at its core,” Dr. Bawumia stated.

He also highlighted the environmental benefits, noting, “The use of fossil fuel-powered vehicles, its impact on climate change and air pollution, are no longer distant threats but urgent realities that demand immediate action.”

Economic impact

Dr. Bawumia emphasised the financial relief the electric buses will provide for both operators and passengers. With operational costs estimated to be 50 percent lower than those of diesel-powered buses, the initiative is expected to make public transport more affordable.

“The economic benefits of using electric buses cannot be overemphasised. Electric buses offer lower operating and maintenance costs compared to conventional diesel buses. This will translate into more efficient resource use, lower transport fares, and enable Metro Mass to invest in fleet renewal and expansion,” he explained.

First phase deployment

The initial phase of the electric bus rollout will service the Adenta–Accra and Ashaiman–Accra routes. Next year, the programme will expand, with additional buses set to serve other parts of the country. 

Dr. Bawumia addressed scepticism surrounding the project, stating, “As usual, many said it was not possible. They said it was an election promise that would not be fulfilled. But that has been their mindset of impossibilities over the past 8 years. If other countries could deploy electric buses, why not Ghana?”