Information Minister, Fatimatu Abubakar, has disclosed that president Akufo-Addo’s decision to cancel the Kayayei levy stemmed from his deep concern for the welfare of head porters, commonly known as Kayayei.
She emphasized that the president’s action reflects his commitment to enhancing the lives of these vulnerable workers.
During an interview with Andy Asante Okyere on Radio Univers’ Wonsom in August 2024, Abubakar recounted a personal encounter with the devastating impact of the levy, recalling a Kayayei who suffered a broken neck during a confrontation over the tax.
“Initially, the Kayayei would be working, and the tax collectors would just hold their pans for them to pay the levy.
“And for me personally, I have witnessed a Kayayei who got her neck broken because of the levy. But because President Akufo-Addo had pity, that is why he cancelled the levy,” she said.
She continued, “Today, he has built three training centres at Madina, Ashaiman, and Kumasi, and those who pass out from these institutions are being given capital to start a business. The president is taking the pan from them and giving them life-changing skills to work.”
Abubakar also highlighted the president’s ongoing efforts to support the Kayayei by building three training centers in Madina, Ashaiman, and Kumasi, where graduates receive capital to start their businesses.
The Information Minister underscored that the president’s dedication goes beyond just abolishing the levy.