A trained Kayayoo (head porter) bus driver took Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia on a ride through town during the electric buses’ commissioning on Wednesday, November 27th.
The event marked the graduation of a special program aimed at equipping Kayayei (female head porters) with driving skills to boost their employability and improve their livelihoods.More than one hundred head porters, referred to as ‘Kayayei,’ have received training to manage the electric buses.
The initiative was part of a larger effort to empower marginalized groups across the country.Dr. Bawumia, who also serves as the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), officially inaugurated the electric buses, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts toward sustainable transport. During the commissioning, he highlighted the expected benefits of the buses, particularly their potential to reduce transport costs for passengers. This is particularly important in a country where public transportation expenses can place a significant strain on people’s daily budgets.
The introduction of these electric buses aligns with the government’s vision of creating more affordable and environmentally friendly transport options, aiming to lower fuel costs and promote cleaner air. By switching to electric buses, the reliance on fossil fuels will decrease, leading to not only economic savings for Passengers.
Dr. Bawumia addressed passengers’ concerns about the cost of using the electric buses, saying, “For those of you who will be boarding these buses, I believe the biggest question on your mind is, how much will it cost? The answer is consistent with our estimates. When I announced this policy during my lecture at UPSA, I mentioned that we expect a 40 to 50 percent reduction in fares for these electric vehicles.”
At the event, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the government’s dedication to fostering sustainable transportation while simultaneously investing in human capital development.
The launch of the electric buses is regarded as a key move in modernizing Ghana’s transport sector and significantly reducing the nation’s carbon footprint.
A video capturing the ceremony shows the trained Kayayoo bus driver operating the electric bus with Dr. Bawumia onboard. The initiative has received widespread praise, with many recognizing the transformative impact it could have on the lives of these women.
As the government expands such initiatives, there is hope that more marginalized groups will be uplifted, leading to a more inclusive and empowered society.
