The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has announced a ban on the use of Toyota Voxy vehicles for commercial passenger transport, citing serious safety risks and widespread illegal modifications.
The directive, which took effect on April 8, follows an investigation into the increasing use of the minivans as trotros and taxis across Ghana.
Presenting the findings in Accra, Chairman of the NRSA Technical Working Committee, Godwin Kafui Ayetor, described the situation as a major threat to public safety.
He explained that the Toyota Voxy was originally designed as a family vehicle and not suited for the demands of commercial transport.
“The manufacturer informed us that the Toyota Voxy is intended for young middle-class families, not for commercial passenger use. It is not designed for high mileage and is meant for paved roads,” he stated.
Authorities also raised concerns about illegal modifications, particularly the conversion of right-hand drive vehicles to left-hand drive in unapproved workshops. These alterations, along with changes to suspension systems and tyres, have significantly compromised the structural integrity of many vehicles.
The committee further identified a broader regulatory lapse that has allowed such vehicles to be imported, modified, and used commercially without proper oversight.
According to Dr. Ayetor, thousands of these vehicles may already be operating nationwide without meeting required safety standards, despite being registered as private vehicles.
The NRSA has therefore recommended:
Stricter enforcement of laws banning right-hand drive vehicle imports
Tighter regulation of vehicle conversions
Immediate halt to registration of such vehicles for commercial use
Increased public education on transport safety
The Ministry of Transport Ghana has backed the directive as part of broader efforts to enhance road safety and reduce accidents linked to unsafe and non-compliant vehicles.
