Why pastors may not be seen - or heard - preaching on Ghana's buses for much longer

What the report says

Ghana’s new enforcement of a long-standing ban on preaching in moving public transport is putting a familiar religious practice under pressure, according to BBC Africa. The report describes morning evangelism at Accra’s Neoplan bus station, where Boateng Bismark James, a 61-year-old pastor, and a small group of worshippers pray before boarding long-distance buses to preach to travellers across the country.

BBC Africa says the regulation, approved by parliament in May and now being enforced in recent weeks, targets preaching and hawking on vehicles in motion. It classifies both as a nuisance and cites passenger safety and comfort. Those found preaching on public service vehicles could face prison time, a fine, or both. The article notes that Ghana first prohibited bus preaching in 2012, but weak enforcement meant the practice remained common.

The report shows opinion split over the change. Some passengers say the preaching is disruptive and can create discomfort, while others believe it can offer comfort, encourage repentance, or reach people who do not attend church. Boateng and other preachers argue the work is part of their faith and also a source of income from voluntary gifts. A senior pastor quoted by BBC Africa said churches should respect the law and use other channels, including social media, to spread their message.

The issue matters because Ghana is highly religious and public transport preaching has been a visible part of daily life, but the new enforcement now forces pastors, passengers and regulators to balance religious expression with safety and order.