Ghana Drops Okada Age to 21, Boosts Youth Job Dreams
Ghana to Lower Age Requirement for ‘Okada’ Riders from 25 to 21 to Expand Youth Employment
The Ministry of Transportation is moving to lower the minimum age limit for “Okada” riders from 25 to 21 years old, which is a major step toward legalizing and regulating commercial motorbike activities in Ghana. This action is a component of a larger legislative procedure aimed at formally incorporating commercial motorbike transportation into the nation’s legal transportation framework.
Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the Minister of Transportation, revealed that a fresh letter has been written and sent to the Cabinet for approval. This updated plan addresses concerns expressed by stakeholders and the general public, especially those in the motorcycle riding community, about the 25-year-old age limit that was first suggested. The ministry claimed that keeping the 25-year age limit in place may prevent a sizable portion of young riders from making a living through legitimate Okada activities.
At first, the Okada age limit was in line with the current regulations for commercial bus and taxi drivers, which stipulate that drivers must be at least 25 years old to operate commercial vehicles. But following a thorough stakeholder engagement process, it became clear that a lower age threshold would be more advantageous and inclusive, especially for younger Ghanaians looking for work in the transportation industry.
Speaking at the Breakfast Meeting of the Chief Executives of the Transport and Logistics Sector, Minister Nikpe clarified that the Cabinet is now considering the new proposal to lower the minimum age to 21. If accepted, the modification will be part of a larger revision to the rules governing commercial transportation, enabling younger people to lawfully participate in both motorcycle and vehicle-based commercial activity.
The Minister underlined that the legislative amendment is being implemented in a comprehensive manner with the goal of creating jobs while making sure that the legal framework upholds accountability and safety in the industry. The government’s willingness to change present legislation shows that it is dedicated to tackling teenage unemployment and modifying rules to reflect the socioeconomic climate of today.
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