Mahama Ayariga distributes tricycles to reduce youth unemployment in Bawku

The Majority Leader of Parliament and Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Honourable Mahama Ayariga, has handed over 20 Pragya (Can-Do) motor tricycles to young beneficiaries in the constituency under the Work-and-Pay programme.

This he said is aimed at reducing youth unemployment and promoting economic empowerment.

The tricycles were presented on his behalf by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chairman for Bawku Central, Mr Mohammed Ndego Awindago, during a ceremony held in the municipality today.

Mr Awindago recalled that during the 2024 campaign period, President John Dramani Mahama, alongside Hon. Mahama Ayariga, promised to provide tools and resources to empower the youth. “Exactly a year ago, the President and Honourable Mahama pledged to support Bawku youth with Pragyas to boost their livelihoods. Today, that promise has been fulfilled,” he said.

He highlighted that Hon. Mahama Ayariga has been instrumental in creating employment opportunities for residents, particularly women, through initiatives providing sewing machines, weaving equipment, and other income-generating tools.

Mr Awindago advised beneficiaries to use the tricycles responsibly under the Work-and-Pay arrangement, noting that the success of the first batch would determine the scale of subsequent distributions. “This is only the first batch. The second and third batches will follow, and their proper use will shape the future of the programme,” he said.

He also urged the youth to promote and celebrate the development efforts of President Mahama and Hon. Mahama Ayariga, highlighting the positive impact on local economic activities.

The initiative is part of deliberate measures to alleviate the economic impact of prolonged conflict in the area, which has disrupted livelihoods and contributed to rising poverty levels. Organisers stated that the performance of beneficiaries in this first phase will guide assessments and strategic planning for future phases, ensuring wider benefits for the municipality.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the President and Hon. Mahama Ayariga, describing the programme as a timely intervention that offers hope and economic opportunities.

Also present at the ceremony were the Bawku NHIA Manager, Hon. Isaiah Limann, the NDC Deputy Youth Organiser, the Presiding Member of the Bawku Municipal Assembly, Hon. Suleman, and other party officials.