Vice President calls for sustainable livelihoods, stronger protection for Kayayei

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has urged for a more comprehensive and sustainable strategy to tackle the issues faced by head porters, commonly referred to as Kayayei. She emphasized that efforts must extend beyond skill development to encompass sustainable livelihoods, safeguarding against exploitation, and enhancing welfare for children residing within Kayayei communities.

During a meeting on Monday, August 10, 2026, at the Jubilee House, she discussed the challenges affecting head porters and strategies to enhance their livelihoods, which include access to skills training, sustainable business prospects, and social protection. The Vice President clarified that the Kayayei situation should be viewed within the wider context of migration, inequality, and development rather than as an isolated social matter.

She pointed out that various economic and social factors urge women and girls to migrate to urban areas in search of opportunities. According to her, while skill training is crucial, any program must align with women's aspirations and provide them with the necessary tools, capital, and market access to transform their skills into sustainable income sources.

She stressed that without the requisite resources and market access, training alone may not suffice to break the cycle of economic vulnerability experienced by many Kayayei. Professor Opoku-Agyemang also expressed concerns over the welfare and protection of children living within Kayayei communities. She advocated for measures to shield head porters from exploitation and other risks associated with their working and living conditions.

The Vice President praised the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection and the Kayayei Association for their ongoing involvement in addressing the issue. She pledged government support in collaboration with relevant institutions to formulate a broader response aimed at addressing both the immediate needs and long-term livelihoods of head porters.

This dialogue is part of broader efforts to devise sustainable solutions to the social and economic challenges that compel women and girls to engage in head-porting work in urban areas.