Accra Buses Now Run Until 11 PM to Help Commuters

Thousands of commuters in Accra, Ghana no longer have to worry about being stranded after dark, thanks to a simple but powerful decision by their city's bus system.

Ayalolo Bus Operations announced it's keeping buses running until nearly 11 PM, a dramatic extension from previous closing times. The change directly responds to overwhelming demand during morning and evening rush hours, when limited transport options left people waiting for hours or forced them into expensive alternatives.

"Our buses no longer shut down at the usual time," explained Justice K. Safo, Public Relations Officer for Ayalolo, speaking on Channel One TV in mid-January. "You can still see them operating after 9 p.m., 10 p.m., and in some cases close to 11 p.m."

The company deployed 115 buses from its 245-vehicle fleet across five critical corridors: Adenta, Amasaman, Pokuase, Kasoa, and Tema-Ashaiman. These routes serve some of Accra's most densely populated neighborhoods, where workers often face grueling commutes.

The extended hours mean parents can pick up children from after-school activities, night shift workers can get home safely, and students attending evening classes have reliable transportation. For many low-income families, affordable public transit isn't just convenient; it's essential.

The Ripple Effect

When public transportation works, entire communities thrive. Workers arrive home with more time and energy for their families instead of spending hours waiting roadside. The money saved on emergency taxi fares can go toward groceries, school supplies, or savings.

Better bus service also reduces traffic congestion as more people choose public transit over personal vehicles. That means cleaner air, safer streets, and less stress for everyone navigating Accra's busy roads.

The decision shows what's possible when transit authorities listen to the people they serve. Ayalolo didn't add new technology or expensive infrastructure; they simply kept existing buses running longer based on real commuter needs.

As cities across Africa grapple with rapid urbanization and growing populations, Accra's solution offers a blueprint: sometimes the best innovations come from doing the basics exceptionally well.