The Vice President and flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia inaugurated the Kayayei Empowerment Training Centre on Tuesday, May 21, at Madina in Accra.

The Centre features two training rooms, three pantries, a kitchen, a clinic, 15 washrooms, five dormitories, fire extinguishers, CCTV, 24/7 security, and a food shed.

The training and hostel facilities under the Kayayei Empowerment Project, have been positioned in different parts of Accra and Kumasi. 

The primary aim of the Kayayei Empowerment Programme is to provide head porters with Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

The programme aims to train 5,000 girls between May and November 2024 with 600 Kayayei per cohort each month and provide practical skills and knowledge to participants to prepare them for specific trades and occupations.

Speaking at the event, Dr Bawumia said that despite the scepticism and criticisms about the project, he knew it would be possible.

“When I made this promise on behalf of the government, there were many who thought it was not a realistic promise. They thought it was not possible. They said it was a 419 scheme but I knew that 'insha Allah' it was possible for us to do it. 

“We had COVID in 2020 and we had to recover from it and so what we are doing for Kayayei’s today is part of a whole programme of activity of our government to help the poor and the vulnerable,” he said. 

On his part, the CEO of the Youth Entrepreneurial Agency, Kofi Agyapong, responsible for implementing the project, emphasised the programme's commitment to providing accommodation and equipping head porters with essential skills.

“Our programme adopts an extensive recruitment process offering training in crucial skills such as baking, beading, soap making and many more.

"Additionally, we cover essential soft skills like personal healthcare and financial literacy to ensure holistic development,” Mr Agyapong added.

The head porters also thanked Dr Bawumia for alleviating their hardships.

One participant said, "We encourage him to continue the good work, and by God's will, we will support him in the 2024 elections."

Another Kayayei added, "We are so happy because you have done a lot. You found us a place to sleep and help anyone who wants to learn a trade. Thank you."