Motorbikes, a necessity in Northern Ghana.

Red….Yellow…Off they go when the lights turn green in a convoy fashion. Like every city or geographical location, there is the one thing that often times makes it peculiar from the common lot. The streets of sprawling Northern Cities are dominated by Motorcycles of various kinds. These automobiles have become an indispensable asset to the average Northern household. Synonymous to bicycles and donkeys in much rural areas, the motorbike has become the mode of transportation for people as well as goods.
According to graphic online, the DVLA in Tamale registered 8000 motorbikes annually on average for the past 10 years. In 2012, the DVLA registered over 10,500 motorcycles. But what accounts for these colossal numbers? The motorcycle appeals to the average earner, a much more economical option in terms of costs as compared to purchasing a private car or even taxi as a means of transport. Its low maintenance costs and fuel consumption make it an ideal means of transportation in these bustling northern cities. With the intertwined layout of the cities, the motorcycles are able to manoeuver through the maze making transport faster and easier.
Nicknamed “Mapouka” the average motorbike is moderately sized, beautiful and convenient. It comes in a variety of colours and designs depending on the brand. Some of the most popular brands are Luojia, Apsonic, Yamaha, Savvy, Haojui, Motorking, Sukida, Royal etc. These automobiles are so loved by the northern populace that a purchase for a girlfriend or wife signifies a possible gift of love and affection. Speaking of female riders, these northern hubs have proven that not even the risks associated with riding motorcycles especially in jam-packed urban areas can relegate these skills to men only. Most women ride in style that attracts admiration of their courage, taking the riding responsibility to another dimension.
As much as the motorbikes have beautifully characterized northern cities, the increasing numbers of casualties from Motor accidents and much subtly environmental protection could highlight it as an issue of public concern in the near future. The ease of any blessing becoming a bane can emanate from the current trends of reckless riding and faulty automobiles with copious amounts of unsafe emissions. These possible concerns can be managed if the regulatory and legislative bodies can share in the premonition and place measures to import environmentally friendly automobiles as well as ensuring that the necessary road safety precautions are strictly adhered to by qualified motor bikers.
But until then, these northern cities will continue thrive on this machine and next time you do visit or even moving, try learning how to ride before leaving, it most likely will be your easiest chance in Ghana.