CUTS International Urges Postponement of TRAFFITECH-GH Enforcement Citing Malfunctioning Infrastructure

CUTS International, a prominent public policy think tank, has issued an urgent appeal to the Ghanaian government to postpone the full enforcement of the TRAFFITECH-GH initiative, currently scheduled for October 1, 2026. While the organization expressed support for leveraging technology to enhance compliance with road traffic regulations, it warned that the current state of road infrastructure—specifically malfunctioning traffic lights and faded road markings—could undermine the system's effectiveness and fairness. The call for a delay follows a series of observations by CUTS regarding the deteriorating state of traffic management systems in the capital, Accra. The organization noted that several traffic lights at critical enforcement locations are either obscured by overgrown trees, physically damaged, or entirely out of service. This lack of visibility and functionality poses a significant risk of confusion for motorists, who might be unfairly penalized by an automated system for violations caused by poorly maintained hardware. In addition to traffic signals, CUTS International highlighted the necessity of clear, visible speed limit signage and distinct road markings before the TRAFFITECH-GH speed cameras are activated. The think tank emphasized that for a technology-driven enforcement regime to be successful, the public must have unambiguous guidance on the rules they are expected to follow. Without these prerequisites, the system risks being viewed as punitive rather than a tool for improving public safety. As the October 1 deadline approaches, CUTS has urged the relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive inspection of all enforcement sites. The organization is advocating for a focused period of repairs and maintenance to ensure all traffic signals, signs, and markings are in optimal condition before fines are triggered. Ensuring this baseline of infrastructure quality is seen as essential for building public trust in the TRAFFITECH-GH program and achieving its goal of reducing road accidents across the country.