Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia was chauffeured by Mary Lalako Agboli, a trained Kayayo (female head porter), in one of Ghana’s newly commissioned electric buses during a milestone event on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. The occasion marked the conclusion of a government-led skills development program aimed at equipping Kayayei with driving skills to enhance their employability and improve livelihoods.
The program, part of the government’s broader agenda to empower marginalized groups, also coincided with the commissioning of eco-friendly electric buses. Dr. Bawumia, who also serves as the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), highlighted the initiative's significance, noting that it reflects the government’s dual commitment to sustainable transportation and human capital development.
Addressing attendees, the Vice President emphasized the transformative potential of the electric buses, which represent a critical step toward modernizing Ghana's transportation sector while addressing environmental concerns. By reducing the country’s carbon footprint, the initiative aligns with global sustainability goals.
A video of the event, widely shared on social media, captured Mary confidently navigating the electric bus with Dr. Bawumia as her passenger. The footage has drawn significant public attention, with many commending the initiative for its impact on empowering women and fostering inclusivity through skills training.
“This is more than a transportation project; it is an empowerment initiative that opens new economic opportunities for some of Ghana’s most vulnerable women,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
The government has announced plans to expand similar programs to include other underprivileged groups, demonstrating a commitment to fostering socio-economic development through skills acquisition and innovation. Officials believe such programs will contribute significantly to reducing poverty and promoting equity in Ghana’s workforce.
The introduction of electric buses is also seen as a cost-effective alternative for commuters. The Vice President revealed that fares on the electric buses are projected to be 40-50% lower than traditional options, offering financial relief to Ghanaians while promoting greener alternatives.
The initiative represents a convergence of technology, environmental responsibility, and social development. As the government seeks to scale up these efforts, it hopes to inspire similar projects across various sectors, creating a more inclusive and sustainable society.
This groundbreaking empowerment program for Kayayei, coupled with the debut of electric buses, underscores the government’s vision for a modern, equitable Ghana where every citizen has an opportunity to thrive.
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