The
Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) commenced a nationwide
stakeholder engagement campaign ahead of the implementation of the New Vehicle Registration Number Plate,
This is a major reform aimed at modernising Ghana’s vehicle registration system
and enhancing road safety and national security.
The
engagements, which cut across all regions of the country such as Oti, Dambai,
Nalerigu, Ho, Kumasi, Cape Coast, among others, brought together key
stakeholders including transport unions, vehicle dealers and importers,
security agencies, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs),
private garage operators, insurance companies, traditional Authorities and
civil society organisations. The initiative forms part of DVLA’s commitment to
inclusive consultation, transparency and public education prior to the rollout
of the new system.
Speaking
during one of the engagement sessions, the Chief Executive of DVLA, Mr. Julius Neequaye Kotey, noted that,
the new vehicle registration number plate is designed to strengthen vehicle
identification, improve data integrity and align Ghana’s vehicle registration
regime with international best practices. He noted that stakeholder inputs are
critical to ensuring a smooth and successful implementation.
“This reform is not just about introducing a new
number plate; it is about building a more secure, efficient and
technology-driven vehicle registration system that serves the national
interest. Engaging stakeholders early allows us to address concerns, clarify
processes and ensure collective ownership of this important transition,” Mr.
Kotey stated.
The new
number plate system will incorporate enhanced security features and modern
technology to support traceability, curb vehicle-related crime and improve
compliance on our roads. DVLA officials used the engagements to explain the
design features, implementation timelines, transition arrangements and the roles
of various stakeholders in the rollout process.
Participants
at the fora welcomed the initiative and commended DVLA for adopting a
consultative approach. Many stakeholders described the engagements as timely
and informative, noting that the opportunity to ask questions and offer
feedback would help minimise challenges during implementation.