The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) is set to introduce new number plates for all Ghanaian vehicles in 2026 to enhance security.
Speaking to journalists about the initiative, the Eastern Regional Manager of DVLA, George Afful, explained that the new plates will contain embedded radio frequency chips, which can help monitor the whereabouts of vehicles.
He noted that the radio frequency chip will enable car owners to trace their vehicles, making car theft a thing of the past.
This initiative, according to him, will also provide security agencies with easy access to information, thereby aiding in the swift arrest of criminals.
Mr. Afful added that Ghana’s current number plates are outdated and no longer meet global best practices. He pointed out that neighboring countries such as Burkina Faso, Togo, and the Ivory Coast have already adopted modern standard plates, and Ghana must follow suit.
He further explained that not every vehicle will automatically receive the new plates, indicating that cars will first be assessed for roadworthiness before being enrolled in the new system, a measure aimed at safeguarding lives.
Mr. Afful emphasized that this is not the first time Ghana has updated its number plates to meet modern standards.
Reacting to the development, the Eastern Regional Chairman of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Johnson Kyereh, expressed support for the DVLA’s initiative, noting that they concur with the introduction by 2026.
He stated that passengers often judge vehicles by their number plates before boarding, which complicates their work. With the new plates, however, Mr. Kyereh said such judgments will no longer be possible, as the year of the car can not be determined.
On the other hand, the Eastern Regional Public Relations Officer of Adom Protoa, Emmanuel Wolegbe, urged the government to put proper measures in place to ensure a smooth transition.
He stressed that when the initiative begins in January 2026, challenges during the re-registration process must be avoided to guarantee efficiency.
By// Kontihen Kofi Oboh.
Source// Obohnewsonline.com.
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