The Vice-President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, yesterday launched the ‘GO Ride’ app, describing it as a groundbreaking platform poised to transform Ghana’s transport sector, and enhance the livelihoods of local drivers.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Bawumia explained that the app was born from a public-private partnership with the goal of alleviating challenges faced by drivers, particularly high commission rates imposed by foreign ride-hailing platforms.
“As many of you know, our local drivers have faced immense challenges, particularly with high commission rates imposed by existing ride-hailing platforms. GO Ride is not just another app; it represents a bold commitment to upgrade the trade of our local drivers, particularly those associated with the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU). With a competitive commission rate of just 10%, our drivers are empowered to retain more of their hard-earned money, improving their financial stability and supporting their families,” he announced.
Commitment
Dr. Bawumia emphasised that the venture reflected the government’s steadfast commitment to supporting local businesses, and fostering economic growth. He noted that by operating GO Ride domestically, Ghana would retain vital foreign exchange, fueling local wealth creation and strengthening the economy. “Every ride taken on GO Ride directly contributes to Ghana’s development, helping to build a sustainable future for all of us,” he asserted.
The new app integrates local fintech innovation through Tap’ n Go, a payment platform designed to enable swift, secure transactions between drivers and passengers. “This integration not only enhances customer satisfaction but also supports our local fintech ecosystem, reinforcing our commitment to homegrown solutions,” Dr Bawumia said. He underscored the initiative’s potential to increase financial inclusion by allowing drivers to enter the formal financial system, opening doors to essential services such as loans and insurance.
Dr. Bawumia outlined the broader economic impact GO Ride was expected to have. He explained that the platform would generate jobs beyond driving, extending opportunities to sectors such as vehicle maintenance, banking, insurance, and customer support. “Each job created is a step toward reducing unemployment and raising the standard of living for our citizens,” he remarked, describing the initiative as a significant contributor to a “vibrant digital ecosystem” in Ghana’s transport industry.
Empowerment
The Vice-President stressed the importance of empowering drivers to participate fully in the digital economy, saying, “by integrating our drivers into the formal economy, we are not just providing them with a platform to earn but also empowering them to build wealth and secure their future.”
He stressed that the shift from a cash-based economy to a digitized system would promote greater financial security and pave the way for economic advancement.
Dr. Bawumia further highlighted the app’s potential to bridge the gap between the formal and informal sectors of Ghana’s economy, creating an inclusive and equitable transport system. “GO Ride will help bridge the gap by creating a more inclusive transport system. The future we have envisioned is now a reality. This is about leveling the playing field,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to key partners, including the Ministry of Transport, Transport for Ghana, the GPRTU, and the National Road Safety Authority, for their collaborative efforts in making the project possible. “Together, we have turned an idea into reality, leapfrogging bottlenecks in public administration and accelerating our economic transformation,” he noted.
He believes that the GO Ride is a symbol of innovation, empowerment, and local pride. “This launch demonstrates that it is possible to uplift our local drivers, create sustainable jobs, and ensure that our nation thrives through innovation and unity. Together, we will make this happen as we forge on with confidence and determination.”
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