CEDA Launches 22-Month Research Project to Explore Ghana’s Transition to Electric Two-and-Three-Wheelers
The Centre for Extractives and Development Africa (CEDA) has launched a 22-month research initiative aimed at exploring Ghana’s transition pathways to electric two- and three-wheelers, commonly referred to as Okada and tricycles.
The project, launched on Thursday, April 24, 2025, in Accra, is being implemented by CEDA with technical and financial support from the Climate Compatible Growth (CCG) programme and the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
Speaking at the launch, Executive Director of CEDA, Samuel Bekoe, emphasized the strategic importance of the transport sector in Ghana’s decarbonisation efforts, noting that the sector accounts for about 38% of the country’s energy-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as of 2021—a 14% increase since 2015.
“We are looking at how to transition our two- and three-wheelers—simply put, Okada and tricycles—into electric vehicles. These modes of transport have become dominant in both urban centres like Accra and Kumasi and in rural areas, where they often serve as one of the most viable means of transportation,” Mr Bekoe stated.
He explained that despite their widespread use, these vehicles significantly contribute to Ghana’s carbon emissions, adding that their transition to electric mobility remains largely unregulated.
“Our research is focusing on three key areas: robust legislation to regulate the sector, the type of infrastructure—such as charging stations or battery hubs—required for this transition, and the kind of incentives needed to attract private sector investment,” he said.
Mr Bekoe further disclosed that the transition to net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 would require an estimated $550 billion, with approximately 70% of that amount needed for the transformation of the transport sector alone.
He added that electric two- and three-wheelers present a faster and more cost-effective route to electrification than electric cars, especially in rural and peri-urban areas, where affordability and accessibility remain key concerns.
“Using life-cycle cost analysis, we aim to show that even though electric motorbikes may have a higher upfront cost, their long-term savings on fuel and maintenance make them more economical over time,” he said.
The research project will conduct regulatory analysis, evaluate economic viability for investors, and perform climate impact assessments—including a life-cycle comparison between electric and fuel-based motorbikes.
It will also examine gender dynamics in the use of two- and three-wheelers and their implications for inclusive mobility.
The project is also expected to assess local manufacturing capabilities and identify socio-economic opportunities, such as job creation, that may arise from a nationwide shift toward electric mobility.
At its conclusion, the project aims to deliver practical policy recommendations, promote strengthened infrastructure for electric vehicles, and facilitate increased adoption of electric two- and three-wheelers as part of Ghana’s broader National Energy Transition Framework.
“By transitioning this segment of our transport system, we not only reduce our emissions and pollution levels but also position Ghana as a regional leader in electric mobility,” Mr Bekoe added.
