The government has ordered a nationwide crackdown on unlicensed courier service operators beginning 1 April, warning that companies and individuals providing delivery services without proper authorisation will face sanctions, fines, or possible closure as regulators move to restore order in the rapidly expanding sector.

Authorities say the exercise will target courier businesses operating without registration, regulatory approval, or compliance with industry standards.

The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, explained that the move forms part of efforts to protect consumers, ensure accountability, and curb the growing number of informal delivery operators that have emerged alongside the rise of e-commerce and online retail.

“Once we have launched the ICOLMS today, the grace period runs from today [12 March] until 31 March 2026. This gives you exactly 19 days, whether you are a company or a single biker, to register on the ICOLMS-Ghana platform.

“All existing courier companies have the same period to onboard and integrate their systems with the ICOLMS digital platform. If you fail to do that, it will attract regulatory sanctions.

“Enforcement with the Ghana Police Service will start on 1 April 2026, and there will be no moratorium. There will be no excuses. I will not intervene; I make a solemn pledge,” he said during the launch of the Integrated Courier and Logistics Management System–Ghana (ICOLMS-Ghana), a digital platform aimed at regulating the courier and logistics sector and supporting the growth of Ghana’s e-commerce ecosystem.

According to him, regulatory agencies are expected to begin inspections and enforcement operations across major cities, checking operating permits, licensing status, and adherence to safety and service regulations.

Operators who fail to regularise their status before the deadline risk having their services suspended while enforcement measures are carried out.