TRO-TRO EXPERIENCE (PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION)

Embarking on a tro-tro, a popular mode of transportation in Ghana for the first time, I felt a mix of excitement and complete nervousness. Will I get off at the right stop? How do I even get the conductors attention to let me off? With the destination set for Hillburi hotel (for a scenic view & good eats) from Medina, the tro-tro quickly filled up with locals and fellow travelers. The lively atmosphere set the stage for an unforgettable experience.

Unity on the Tro-Tro

During the ride, a young boy, no older than 5 years old, unexpectedly darted into the middle of the street, causing our tro-tro driver to slam on the breaks. The collective gasp and concern from everyone on board was palpable.

What happened next left me in awe.

Lesson about Humanity

As the kid ran back to his mother, EVERY passenger on this tro-tro begin to yell at the child and his mother as we swerved past. The ENTIRE TRO-TRO. Even the teenage boy who was serving as the conductor began to yell.

After listening to the chatter on the tro-tro, I noticed they weren’t scolding the family — they were putting the mother on notice that she had to do better. It was my first encounter of a “village experience.” I felt like I rode away with the essence of Ghanaian culture and its strong sense of community and responsibility for one another.

Ghana Fact

During your journey on the tro-tro, the conductor serves as a vital piece to the experience. The conductor rests his head outside the window screaming the next destination. He also collects the money once all the seats on the tro-tro are filled.