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The Sierra Leone Public Transport Authority (SLPTA) has held a major consultative meeting with the Drivers Union and other key transport stakeholders to review the proposed 2025 Public Transportation Tariff and Regulations ahead of its submission to Parliament.
The meeting, which took place at the Freetown Bus Station, brought together representatives of drivers’ associations, government institutions, and transport service providers to discuss reforms aimed at improving safety, accountability, and fairness within the public transport sector.
SLPTA officials explained that the proposed tariff and regulatory framework is intended to create a more structured and well-regulated transport system that protects both commuters and operators. They warned that any unlawful increase in transport fares would attract immediate enforcement actions once the new measures take effect.
A major focus of the discussions was the protection of drivers from unfair treatment, particularly in interactions with law enforcement officers. Officials stated that clear operational guidelines would be introduced to reduce conflicts and promote fairness across the sector.
Under the proposed regulations, transport operators will be required to strictly adhere to vehicle licensing conditions. For instance, any taxi licensed to carry a maximum of five passengers but exceeding that limit will be liable to penalties. Additionally, drivers will be required to undergo mandatory training before licenses are issued, covering road safety, customer care, and transport laws.
The meeting also addressed ongoing regional efforts to harmonize driver licensing systems with neighbouring countries. Government representatives confirmed that discussions are underway to allow Sierra Leonean drivers to operate legally in countries such as Liberia, Guinea, and Ghana using a unified licensing framework.
Manufacturers and distributors, including representatives from tricycle (kekeh) companies, participated in the dialogue. Discussions included the current registration arrangement that links each tricycle to a single registered owner to improve accountability. Under this system, owners will be held responsible for incidents involving their registered tricycles.
SLPTA officials further noted that serious violations of the new regulations could lead to the suspension or withdrawal of a driver’s license. The enforcement of standard road safety signs and traffic regulations is also expected to become mandatory nationwide.
Once approved, the proposed 2025 Public Transport Tariff and Regulations will apply to all public transport services in Sierra Leone, including buses, taxis, tricycles (kekehs), motorbikes (okadas), and other commercial passenger vehicles.
The consultative meeting marks a key step in the government’s efforts to strengthen regulation, promote safety, and enhance public confidence in Sierra Leone’s transport sector.
