Ghana bans preaching on buses with jail terms for offenders
Ghana has implemented a new law banning preaching and hawking on public transport vehicles to improve passenger safety and comfort. Offenders face fines or up to eight months in prison, ending a long-standing cultural practice in the country.
Why it matters
The law highlights a tension between religious expression and public order in a predominantly Christian nation.
Boateng Bismark James has been preaching on buses leaving Neoplan station since 2023/Screengrab
Before the morning rush begins, the sound of praise and worship fills the Neoplan bus station in Ghana's capital, Accra, as a group of Christians gather to prepare to evangelise on vehicles taking travellers across the country.
Amid drumming and dancing, Boateng Bismark James leads 13 worshippers, nine men and four women, in prayer for drivers and passengers travelling to destinations across Ghana.
Ghana is a predominantly Christian country where preaching on public transport is widespread.
On long-distance buses, pastors can often be seen - and heard - preaching the gospel.
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