Okada riders to receive road safety training, insurance cover

The Chief Executive Officer of the Kick 4 Street Foundation, Mr. Charles Adu Asinor, has pledged structured road safety education, insurance cover, and official identification for commercial motorbike riders—commonly known as Okada operators—as part of efforts to formalise and professionalise the sector following moves towards its legalisation.

Speaking at the launch of the Okada Festival in Accra on Wednesday, Mr. Asinor said the initiative aims to position the business as a credible commercial enterprise while using the festival, scheduled for March 7 to mark Ghana’s Independence Day, to promote the country’s image internationally. The foundation also plans to supply motorbikes to individuals interested in joining the business during the festival.

“If you want to legalise the Okada business, you have to be official,” he noted, stressing that the initiative would provide continuous education on safe riding and proper road use to make operations more structured and efficient.

The foundation has partnered with KEK Insurance Brokers to offer tailored insurance packages for riders, including life and motor policies, designed to create a safer operating environment and protect riders’ livelihoods. Additionally, an identity card system will be introduced to distinguish legitimate operators from individuals committing crimes while posing as Okada riders, helping to restore public confidence in the sector.

Mr. Asinor further explained that the foundation intends to represent riders in government engagements, advocating policies to support the formalised Okada sector.

Also speaking at the event, the Secretary of Riders Don’t Play, Mr. Samuel Adjei-Mante, highlighted challenges faced by operators, including alleged harassment by some police officers during enforcement exercises, even for riders with valid documentation. He expressed optimism that recognising Okada as a formal commercial enterprise would ease tensions and promote greater responsibility among operators.

The initiative will combine celebration with advocacy, focusing on education, regulation, and collaboration among stakeholders as part of broader efforts to reform Ghana’s growing commercial motorbike sector.

BY RAYMOND APPIAH-
AMPONSAH

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