A recent claim by Deputy Transport Minister Hassan Tampuli regarding the driver of an electric bus during the launch of Ghana's electric bus pilot program has been proven false. Tampuli had stated that the driver, Mary Lalako Agboli, was a former head porter, or kayayo, trained under a government initiative. However, an investigation by Citi Verify reveals that Mary’s professional journey had no connection to the government program.
The Background
On November 27, 2024, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia participated in the launch of Ghana’s first electric bus program by taking a symbolic ride through Accra. Following the event, Tampuli claimed in an interview on Citi FM that Mary, the driver during the event, was one of the beneficiaries of a government scheme aimed at equipping former kayayei with vocational skills, including professional driving. The statement, which gained significant media attention, has now been debunked.
The Facts
Mary’s True Background
Mary Lalako Agboli is an experienced bus driver who has been in the profession for six years. She received her training from the Network of Women Growth (NEWIG Ghana), a non-governmental organization that empowers women through vocational training. In 2017, Mary enrolled in NEWIG’s Professional Driving Initiative, which trained her for a career in public transportation. After completing her training, Mary began working as a driver for the Aayalolo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, a position she has held since.
Public documentation further confirms her career trajectory. For instance, a feature article published by NEWIG in June 2024 highlighted Mary’s achievements and her role in breaking stereotypes in the transport sector.
Evidence Contradicts Government Claim
Archived footage from as early as 2020 shows Mary driving a BRT bus, years before the government launched its initiative to train kayayei. The program, which officially started in May 2024, could not have been responsible for Mary’s training or career development.
Additionally, Mary was never a kayayo. Before pursuing her training with NEWIG, she worked as a pupil teacher.
The assertion that Mary Lalako Agboli was a former kayayo trained under a government program is incorrect. Her success story is instead tied to the efforts of NEWIG Ghana, which trained her and provided a platform for her professional growth. While the government’s program to train kayayei is commendable, attributing Mary’s accomplishments to it misrepresents her story and undermines the contributions of organizations like NEWIG.
By ensuring accurate representation of individuals’ achievements, we can celebrate genuine success stories and promote transparency in public discourse.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0