The Nifahene of Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council and Chief of Asiakwa, Daasebre Dr Twum Ampofo II, has appealed to the government to legalize and regulate the tricycle (Pragya) riding business.
The move, he believes, would help reduce unemployment, social vices, and illegal mining activities in Asiakwa and across the country.
Speaking at a day summit with over 70 Pragya riders at Asiakwa, the chief emphasized the need to empower the youth to become useful citizens, contributing to the socio-economic development of the area.
The summit was organized by the office of Asiakwa Traditional Council with the primary objective of engaging them in informed decision-making processes that impact their business operations within the community.
Daasebre Dr Twum Ampofo, II, attributed the recent decrease in crime and violence rates to the Pragya business, stating that Pragya has come to stay in the country, hence the need to legalize the business to ease the plight of the youth.
He urged the riders to be disciplined, law-abiding, and adhere to motor traffic rules and regulations to avoid accidents and announced plans to organize a training program for them on regular basis.
Daasebre said, although the business is currently illegal, he pledged his support to help the riders acquire licenses, recognizing the necessity of the business for the survival of the youth in the community.
The chief reiterated his commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of the populace through job creation and improving their standard of living.
Chairman of the Asiakwa Pragya Drivers Association, Apostle Yaw Nkekye Nyame-Tiase, commended Daasebre Twum Ampofo II for laying such a strong foundation and demonstrating a commitment to supporting the drivers’ well-being through informed decision-making, ultimately driving development and progress.
He hailed the summit as a positive step, acknowledging the challenges faced by Pragya drivers in the community.
According to him, majority of the over 70 youth engaged in the Pragya business in the area do not possess licenses, however, following Daasebre’s commitment and assurance, they were hopeful of acquiring the necessary licenses.
He appealed to his fellow riders to adhere to the directives and advice offered by the reverred chief, which he believed would significantly boost their business.
The chairman further revealed that the poor road conditions were a major contributor to the high incidence of accidents involving Pragya vehicles and thus called for urgent improvements to road infrastructure in the enclave.
