The Chief Executive Officer of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), Mr. Julius Neequaye Kotey, has described the registration of excavators and agricultural equipment as one of his most significant achievements since assuming office a year ago.

According to Mr. Kotey, the move has helped bring previously unregulated equipment into the formal system, improving road safety, accountability and revenue mobilisation for the state.

Speaking on the Authority’s performance over the past year, the DVLA CEO outlined a series of reforms and initiatives aimed at improving service delivery and operational efficiency.

Among the major milestones is the introduction of 24-hour vehicle registration services at the Tema and Takoradi ports, in line with the government’s 24-hour economy policy.

The Adentan DVLA office was the first to begin round-the-clock operations, followed by key ports of entry where DV stickers are issued, as well as the Authority’s print-farm.

Mr. Kotey also announced that the DVLA has successfully cleared a long-standing backlog of licences, processing more than 444,000 licences nationwide.

He said this achievement reflects the Authority’s renewed commitment to efficient and customer-focused service delivery.

Other reforms introduced under his leadership include a new vehicle registration numbering system and the deployment of DP stickers to help curb revenue leakages.

The Authority has also established 10 new DVLA offices across the country to bring services closer to the public.

In a bid to improve communication with clients, the DVLA has implemented SMS notifications for licence renewal activities and introduced weekly visits to lorry terminals to enhance compliance and public education.

Financially, the Authority recorded a 39 per cent increase in revenue year-on-year, a development Mr. Kotey attributed to strengthened systems, improved monitoring and strategic partnerships.

On the welfare and capacity-building front, the DVLA renovated and operationalised its canteen at the Head Office and established a Skills Development Centre to enhance staff training and professionalism.

The Authority has also deepened collaboration with key institutions, including the State Insurance Company (SIC), the National Identification Authority (NIA), and entered into a partnership with the Buz Stop Boys to support operational activities.

Mr. Kotey said the achievements recorded within a year demonstrate the DVLA’s resolve to modernise its operations and contribute meaningfully to national development through efficient regulation of drivers and vehicles.