In a groundbreaking effort to empower marginalized groups, over 100 head porters, commonly known as kayayei, have been trained to drive newly commissioned electric buses. This initiative, part of the Kayayei Empowerment Programme (KEP), aims to improve their livelihoods and boost their employability.
The culmination of this transformative program was celebrated on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, during a graduation ceremony where Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia commissioned the electric buses and presented certificates to 22 kayayei graduates.
In a symbolic and inspiring moment, one of the newly trained kayayei bus drivers took Dr. Bawumia on a ride through town, showcasing their newly acquired skills and marking a significant milestone in the program’s success.
Dr. Bawumia praised the graduates, describing their journey from head porters to skilled professionals as inspiring. He highlighted how the KEP has transformed the lives of over 5000 kayayei through diverse skills training programs, including soap making, beadwork, bakery, and beauty services.
The Vice President also emphasized the dual impact of this initiative: modernizing Ghana’s transport sector and investing in human capital. The introduction of electric buses, he noted, is a significant step toward reducing the nation’s carbon footprint and tackling economic challenges in public transportation.
The newly commissioned electric buses will operate on key routes, including Oyibi-Accra, Accra-Amasaman, and Ashaiman-Accra. These eco-friendly buses are expected to cut public transportation costs by up to 40%, offering commuters a sustainable and cost-effective alternative.
Dr. Bawumia expressed pride in the success of the kayayei graduates, describing the initiative as a testament to the government’s commitment to empowering vulnerable communities.
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