File photo of some Metro Mass buses
Commuters who battle daily with long queues and overcrowded “trotro” services may soon experience some relief, as government has announced the arrival of the first batch of 100 new buses in March 2026.
The Deputy Minister of Transport and Member of Parliament for Jomoro, Dorcas Affo-Toffey, says the buses form part of a broader plan to inject more than 300 vehicles into the Metro Mass Transit (MMT) fleet before the end of the year.
Speaking in an interview with Onua News, she stressed that the move reflects government’s determination to tackle the country’s transport challenges head-on.
“We have been to Egypt, India and Dubai to procure buses to augment MMT operations,” she stated.
“The arrival of these first 100 mini-buses in March proves that we are not sitting idle or unconcerned about the struggles the masses face regarding transport,” she said.
The 29-seater buses are expected to hit the roads ahead of the busy Easter season, a period often marked by high travel demand. Beyond increasing capacity, the new fleet is designed to modernize public transport and reduce the heavy reliance on informal services.
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According to the Deputy Minister, these are not ordinary buses. She described them as “smartphones on wheels” because of their advanced technological features.
The buses will include onboard phone charging ports, a “Tap n’ Go” automated ticketing system for contactless payments, and Real-Time Tracking Passenger Information Systems (RTPI) to help commuters know exactly when their bus will arrive.
In addition, Fleet Telematics systems will allow authorities to monitor routes and track driver behaviour in real time, improving safety and efficiency.
Mindful of past concerns where new buses fell into disrepair, Miss Affo-Toffey outlined measures to protect the investment.
She explained that manufacturers and investors will oversee maintenance for the first 12 months, while MMT workshops across the country will be stocked with spare parts for quick repairs.
Local engineers will also receive intensive training during this period to eventually take full control of technical management.
She further disclosed that discussions with private sector partners have been fruitful, with more privately funded buses expected between March and April. The broader goal, she said, is to create a “sustainable and appealing alternative to private car ownership.”
Appealing for public patience, the Jomoro lawmaker urged citizens to support the administration’s “Resetting Agenda” for the transport sector, expressing optimism that the reforms will bring lasting improvement to public transportation nationwide.
NA/AM
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