MMT targets return to profitability

By Wisdom JONNY-NUEKPE

Management of Metro Mass Transit has said the company is seeking to revamp its operations and become profitable once more after years of recording losses.

Per its books, the company’s current debt stands at GH¢123million as of August this year from GH¢130million in first-quarter this year.

Managing Director-MMT Mr Cezario Kale, speaking to B&FT during a working tour of the company by Deputy Trasport Minister Dorcas Affo Toffey, explained that MMT is currently confronted with several operational challenges.

At the time of its establishment in 2004, MMT was equipped with over 1,000 buses; however, data from the company indicates that only about 115 buses are currently operational.

The fleet’s drastic reduction in past years has also affected the company’s 350 traditional routes, reducing them to just 88 routes nationwide.

Despite current challenges, according to Mr. Kale the company is embarking on a retooling agenda to bring in about 2,000 buses and revive operations.

These acquisitions are expected to be credit-based, with repayment time ranging between three to 10 years and no down-payment.

Mr. Kale assured that MMT will continue studying market trends, identifying opportunities and adapting to suit the commuting public’s taste.

The company plans to introduce three innovative services: an express division, a cargo division and a hiring division, with air-conditioned buses for passenger comfort.

This strategic plan is expected to improve travel time, provide comfort, eliminate crowding and noise, as well as ensuring reliability and accessibility of buses.

Ultimately, these improvements, according to MMT, will positively impact revenue inflow and contribute in the company’s revival.

The Deputy Minister, after the tour, emphasised that government has earmarked the company’s operations as part of its 24-Hour Economy Policy agenda.

“Metro Mass Transit has made invaluable contributions by transporting countless passengers at affordable fares and, on many occasions, offering free rides to students and the elderly. These efforts have enhanced the socio-economic well-being of our citizens,” she noted.

Highlighting the company’s mandate to provide safe, reliable and affordable mass transit services, Madam Affo-Toffey emphasised the urgent need for fleet expansion to sustain intra-city, inter-city and rural-urban operations.

The visit, according to her, provided an opportunity to engage with management on existing challenges and explore sustainable strategies for strengthening the institution.

“Although this may seem challenging, I assure you that the ministry will provide the necessary support – whether through bus acquisition or other essential resources. I am confident that Metro Mass Transit will regain its reputation as a reliable pillar of our national transport system,” she assured.

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