Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has inaugurated a new initiative aimed at empowering 5,000 female head porters, known as ‘kayayei’, to improve their socio-economic status. Launched in Accra, the ‘Kayayei Empowerment Programme’ will offer vocational training, housing, and support to facilitate these women’s transition into more stable employment.
Programme Overview
The initiative focuses on providing technical and vocational education and training (TVET) to the participants. The initial cohort of 5,000 women will undergo a three-week training course that includes practical skills such as baking and beading, complemented by lessons in personal health care, financial management, and entrepreneurship.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Dr. Bawumia also opened two hostels designed to accommodate the trainees. Located in Madina and Ashaiman, these facilities are equipped with modern training amenities, sanitary washrooms, and bathing areas. Additional hostels are under construction in the Ashanti and Bono East regions, each with a capacity to house 300 girls.
Collaborative Efforts
The programme is the result of partnerships among various government agencies, private enterprises, and civil society organizations. Key collaborators include:
- Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA)
- National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP)
- Youth Employment Agency (YEA)
- Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET)
- Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund)
- Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)
- District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF)
- Father Campbell Foundation
- BEST
- Ghana National Gas Company
- Bulk Oil Storage and Transport (BOST)
PAY ATTENTION: How to Make Money with Land in Ghana
Societal Impact
Dr. Bawumia emphasized the urgent need to address the challenges faced by the kayayei, who often endure homelessness, inadequate medical care, and harassment in urban centers. The programme aims to uplift these marginalized women through comprehensive training and support. Post-training, participants will receive starter packs and ongoing assistance to ensure they do not return to head portering.
Future Expansion
Further expanding the programme, discussions are underway to include driving lessons and ICT training through partnerships with Metro Mass and Ayalolo. This will broaden the skills and economic opportunities available to the kayayei.
Government Commitment
Greater Accra Regional Minister Titus Nii Kwartei Glover highlighted the government’s dedication to providing safe housing and vocational training. He stressed the importance of maintaining the new facilities to ensure they continue serving their intended purpose.
YOU CAN’T MISS: Dr. Bawumia Vows to Make Ghana the Digital Hub of Africa
Addressing Challenges
Kofi Baah Agyapong, CEO of the YEA, acknowledged the difficulties faced by female head porters, such as lack of shelter and poor medical care. He affirmed that the empowerment programme represents a significant step forward in addressing these issues, providing decent accommodation and vital skills to secure dignified employment.
Don’t Miss Our Highlighted Article of the Year: What Business Can I start With 2,000 Ghana Cedis
Conclusion
The ‘Kayayei Empowerment Programme’ marks a transformative effort to support and uplift female head porters in Ghana, offering them a path to a more secure and prosperous future.