On July 30, 2025, 3:40 PM
Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has announced a sharp increase in the penalty for overloading vehicles from GH₵5,000 to GH₵50,000 in a bid to curb the widespread abuse of Ghana’s axle load regulations.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series at Jubilee House on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, the Minister said the move aims to protect national road infrastructure from costly damage caused by overloaded trucks.
“Axle load penalties are not fees, they are fines for violating the law, the goal isn’t to raise revenue. In fact, we want to see zero axle load penalties. That would mean overloading has stopped,” he said.
He noted that the financial damage caused by overloaded vehicles far outweighs the current fines.
Citing the Agona Junction to Tarkwa road, which has deteriorated less than a year after construction, he said overloading is a key contributor to early road failure.
To strengthen enforcement, the Ministry plans to expand accountability beyond drivers.
Transport operators who add excess cargo after leaving Tema Port will now face stiffer consequences.
“We’re introducing tougher penalties that also target the owners of overloaded goods, a portion of such cargo will be confiscated, auctioned, and proceeds directed to the Road Maintenance Trust Fund,” Agbodza said.
“If you lose half your goods due to overloading, chances are you’ll comply next time,” he added.
The new measures are part of the government’s broader effort to improve transparency, reduce road maintenance costs, and ensure lasting infrastructure across the country.
Kwame Agbodza Minister of Roads and Highways overloading penalty
