As Ghana celebrates International Women’s Day (IWD), the story of the country’s female head porters, popularly known as “kayayei,” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of promoting gender equality and empowering women.

Despite facing numerous challenges and skepticism from some members of society, these young women are determined to succeed and provide for their families. In major markets across the country, one often comes across female head porters, locally known as “kayayei,” waiting for clients or walking up to traders to ask if they need their services.

These head porters assist in carrying goods for traders in exchange for a fee. Most of these women come from the northern parts of the country, where economic opportunities are limited. They travel down south to engage in the kayayei business in order to earn an income.

Amina, a head porter at the Makola Market in Accra, shared her story with us.

“I earn very little from this work, despite it being physically demanding and stressful,” she said.

Her sister echoed her sentiments, expressing the desire for the government to come to their aid and improve their difficult living conditions.

“I travelled from the north to make ends meet here yet I sleep outside. I earn just about 30 cedis a day. I buy food and clothes from this money and still have to send money home. It’s very disturbing and we’ll accept any help that we can get,” she said.

The rise of female head porters is not only challenging traditional gender norms but also reshaping societal perceptions of women’s roles. Despite their crucial contribution to the economy, the kayayei face significant challenges, both in terms of their working conditions and the societal perceptions surrounding their work.

Empowering the kayayei requires a multifaceted approach. It’s not just about improving their working conditions but also providing access to education and skills to enable them to break free from the cycle of inequality.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us recognize the strength and resilience of Ghana’s female head porters. Let us work towards creating a more equitable society where women have equal opportunities to succeed and thrive.

Read also:

IWD: Gender equality is about making every woman reach her full potential – FIDA

By Ericka Jumaa Korankye

The post IWD: Breaking Stereotypes: The resilience of Ghana’s female head porters first appeared on 3News.

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