In a move to address challenges posed by ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt, Ghanaian authorities are launching a dedicated app for traditional taxi drivers, aiming to offer a competitive alternative and provide support to this established sector.

Ghana's "Tap N' Go" app, aiming to formalize and integrate the informal transport sector, officially launched on Monday, February 19, following an announcement by Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia.

Available on iOS and Android, the app caters to both users and drivers. Users can book rides from private cars or traditional metered taxis, while drivers receive alerts when their services are requested. This two-sided approach addresses user preferences and offers traditional taxi drivers a platform to compete.

The launch reflects the rapid digitalization of Africa's transport sector, driven by rising on-demand mobility applications. According to Partech Africa data, African mobility startups secured $48 million in 2023 alone. Statista projects "Ride-hailing & Taxi" sales on the continent to reach $4.13 billion in 2024.

"The launch of this app," said Nana Nimako Asiamah, National Chairman of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), during December's testing phase, "is a timely intervention to save our business." Before its official launch, Tap N' Go underwent trials in several Accra neighborhoods, including the Airport, East Legon, and Dansoman.

Adoni Conrad Quenum