The District Chief Executive for Ho West, Hon. Francis Profer Dusey, on Wednesday, 10th December 2025, held a stakeholder engagement with commercial motorcycle riders popularly known as “Okada,” at the Assembly Hall of the Ho West District Assembly. The meeting focused on promoting road safety, addressing operational concerns, and discussions on the establishment of the Ho West District Okada Riders’ Association.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Dusey acknowledged the critical role Okada riders play in the district’s transportation system, especially in providing access to hard-to-reach communities. He stressed the need for proper regulation of their activities to enhance safety and orderliness. He urged the riders to strictly comply with road safety guidelines, including the mandatory use of helmets, possession of valid licenses, avoidance of overloading, and prompt payment of levies to the Assembly.
The DCE further proposed the creation of the Ho West District Okada Riders’ Association, explaining that such a body would strengthen engagement between riders and the Assembly, improve coordination, and provide a unified platform for addressing challenges affecting their operations. He also emphasized the need for the Assembly to establish a comprehensive database of all commercial motor riders in the district to facilitate easy identification and effective planning.
During the engagement, the okada riders expressed appreciation for the opportunity to interact directly with the Assembly. They raised several concerns, including difficulties in obtaining licenses, poor road conditions in some communities, lack of hire-purchase schemes to acquire motorcycles, alleged harassment by some police officers, the absence of designated loading points, and the need for regular training and sensitization to enhance safety.
Branches were tasked to elect representatives, which will eventually lead to district-level representation of the association as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration and improve communication.
Hon. Dusey thanked the riders for their contributions and assured them of the Assembly’s commitment to deepen engagement and collaborate with relevant agencies to address their concerns. He encouraged them to fast-track discussions on forming the district association to strengthen their collective voice, and help build a safer and more organized transport system within the Ho West District.
The District Social Welfare and Community Development Officer, Mr. Prince Semabia, also took the opportunity to conduct a condom activation exercise and delivered sensitization on HIV awareness and child maintenance.
Source: ISD: HO WEST DISTRICT ASSEMBLY
