In Freetown, Sierra Leone, a small but growing number of women are entering the male-dominated commercial transport sector by driving auto-rickshaws, known locally as kekeh. These three-wheeled vehicles have become an essential means of transport in the capital, where the public system is strained and the population has grown to over 1.5 million.
Hawa Mansaray, a 27-year-old single mother, is one of these drivers. After separating from her husband and dropping out of school, she turned to kekeh driving and now earns an average daily wage of 175 leones ($7), enough to support her family. She encourages other women to join the trade.
However, female drivers face stigma and challenges. Marfoh Mariama Samai, a women's rights advocate with Plan International Sierra Leone, notes that women are often seen as inadequate for certain jobs and face stigmatization when they venture into them. Safety concerns and aggressive behavior from male riders are also common issues.
Despite these difficulties, drivers like Alimatu Kamara have found success. Kamara, who was unemployed for years, now plans to expand her business and purchase more rickshaws. The Sierra Leone Kekeh Riders Union has over 1,000 registered members, but only about 20 are women. Union chairman Mustapha Thoronka supports training and loans for female drivers, urging the government to provide more support.
Commuters like Mariama Barrie appreciate the service, and the rickshaws have become a symbol of women's capabilities. As Mansaray puts it, 'I will advise my fellow women who aren’t employed to come into the game.'
