motorcyles vs cars

The average, middle class working person aspires to own a small motorcycle as their primary form of transportation.  Because salaries are quite low ($200-$300/month) most people will never own a car.  The ratio of motorcycles to autos at this gas station is around 30 to 1, comparable to what you see on the streets.

Another obstacle to owning a car is the price of gas in Ghana at $5/gallon.  Not to mention that gas supply is a bit sporadic.  A gas truck makes the 450 mile journey on the slow roads from Accra only 1-2 times/week and they periodically run out in the gas stations.  It’s a lot easier to push your moto home than it is to push a car when you have to wait a day for Bolgatanga’s next delivery of gas.