Social and economic conditions of head porters in Accra metropolis

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the social and economic conditions of head porters (Kayayei) in the Accra Metropolis. This led to the formulation of five research questions: what healthcare options are available to Kayayei?; under what sanitary situations do Kayayei live?; which accommodation options are available to Kayayei?; how much do Kayayei earn from their economic activities?; and how do Kayayei manage their finances? The design for the study was the survey research design. In all 401 Kayayei from four main clusters in the metropolis were selected for the study. Two main instruments were used. These were the questionnaire and a semistructured interview schedule. The study revealed that the ‘Kayayei’ are exposed to health hazards and acute sanitary conditions not to mention the poor accommodation problems which the ‘Kayayei’ face. The study further brought out the financial hardship to the ‘Kayayei’ in terms of their daily earnings and how they manage their finances to support their daily needs and even save for future use and investment. Some of the recommendations include the extension of micro financial services, establishment of small scale industries for the processing of shea butter and other agricultural produce, provision of adequate infrastructure in the rural areas and long term policies for rural development will enable livelihood activities and stem the tide of the migration of ‘Kayayei’.