Abor: A total of 50 commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as 'Okada' riders from Ketu North, Keta, and Anloga, have been educated on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The initiative aimed to equip participants, who are leaders from their respective unions, with essential understanding and skills. It also sought to expose them to the risks associated with early sexual activities, thereby positioning them to behave appropriately for the growth of their businesses within their communities.
According to Ghana News Agency, the event was held at the St. Theresa RC Assembly hall in Abor within the Keta Municipality. Mr. Yao Semorde, the Volta Regional Director of the National Youth Authority (NYA), emphasized the importance of the event in light of increasing cases of alleged sexual activities involving 'Okada' riders and teenagers, which often result in teenage pregnancies. He noted the necessity for public awareness and education to reverse this trend, enabling participants to impart the acquired knowledge to non-participants of the workshop.
Mr. Semorde also highlighted that similar training sessions had recently been conducted in Akatsi North district, Central Tongu, and the Adaklu districts, with support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). He commended the UNFPA for its continuous support in addressing this issue.
Mr. Wisdom Bondieu Seade, the Municipal Chief Executive for Keta, encouraged riders to overcome feelings of inferiority, emphasizing that the motor riding business is not restricted to illiterates or vulnerable groups. He urged riders to adhere to road regulations and maintain integrity in their operations, as the government is making efforts to legalize their activities. On the topic of sex education, he advised participants against luring teenagers with free services and stressed the importance of proper conduct and communication with customers.
Mr. Stanley Saho, a nurse from the Keta Municipal Health Directorate, educated participants on the importance of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and its associated rights. He outlined objectives such as integrating SRH discussions into union meetings, training riders as peer educators, and distributing SRH messages on gear. Mr. Saho also advocated for using audio messages and WhatsApp platforms to promote positive campaigns and behavioral changes.
Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Agbota Agbodzi from the Abor Police Command, educated participants on the various forms and impacts of GBV, including sexual violence, physical assault, and psychological violence. He emphasized the consequences, referring to the Criminal Code 1960 (Act 29), and urged societal members to avoid such actions.
The event, themed 'Okada Ride: Defending Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights of the Youth', was implemented by the Volta Regional Coordinating Council. Participants expressed appreciation for the training and called for more opportunities to explore key topics further.
