Zaato Urges Transport Ministry to Deploy New Metro Mass Buses More Strategically

Senior lecturer and political analyst Joshua Jebuntie Zaato is advising the Ministry of Transport to adopt a more strategic approach in deploying newly acquired public buses, stressing the need to clearly separate intracity and intercity operations.

Speaking on Breakfast Daily on Tuesday, April 7, Dr. Zaato questioned whether the new fleet is meant for short city commutes or longer intercity travel. He argued that policy clarity is essential to ensure the buses are used efficiently.

His remarks follow an announcement from Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, confirming the arrival of 100 new 29-seater buses as part of efforts to ease transportation challenges.

Dr. Zaato maintained that the State Transport Corporation (STC) should be empowered to handle intercity travel, noting that long-distance routes require larger and more robust buses.

He added that Metro Mass Transit buses should operate strictly within cities, functioning like commercial “trotro” services to enhance urban mobility and provide commuters with more reliable options.

He emphasized:

“Deploy larger buses for long-distance routes under STC, and keep Metro Mass Transit buses within city centres, where they can operate like trotros and offer real competition. The Transport Ministry should ensure bigger, more efficient buses are procured for intercity operations while Metro buses focus on urban transport.”