Accra’s public transport: A glimpse into the trotro experience

In the bustling city of Accra, Ghana, the familiar sight of trotros – the ubiquitous mini-buses that form the backbone of the public transport system – is an integral part of daily life.

Trotros, operated by business-savvy drivers, prioritize maximizing passenger count over punctuality. Unconcerned about the urgency of their riders, these drivers stop at every potential pickup point, causing inconvenience to those in a hurry.

Passengers often find themselves sharing the vehicle with unexpected companions due to the driver’s relentless pursuit of a full load.

Unpredictability is another hallmark of trotro travel. A journey to one destination might transform mid-course due to the quest for more passengers, leaving bewildered passengers switching vehicles in transit. Instances of drivers and mates running out of fuel and scrambling to refuel further underline the less-than-ideal conditions of trotro rides.