Vice President and NPP Flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has commissioned a state-of-the-art hostel facility and skills training center in Madina and Ashaiman, Greater Accra Region to enhance the lives of head porters locally known as ‘Kayayei’.
These multi-purpose facilities fulfill a promise made by Dr. Bawumia in 2019 to provide decent accommodation for Kayayei, aiming to help them transition off the streets.
At the commissioning event, Dr. Bawumia expressed his delight at the realization of this project, which not only addresses the urgent need for shelter but also introduces a comprehensive skills training program.
“I am honored to be part of this initiative dedicated to empowering head porters, offering transitional job pathways, and enhancing their socio-economic status. It is a cause close to my heart as it addresses the plight of a marginalized segment of our society,” he stated.
The initiative is part of a broader government effort involving various agencies, private sector partners, and NGOs to uplift these young women through the newly established Kayayei Empowerment Programme.
The program will initially train 5,000 head porters in essential skills such as baking, beading, personal health care, financial management, and entrepreneurial acumen over three weeks. Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of post-training support, noting, “Participants will receive starter packs tailored to facilitate their seamless integration into new economic opportunities and ensure they do not return to being head porters.”
Plans are also in place to collaborate with Aayalolo and Metro Mass for additional training opportunities.
