By Daniel Adu Darko
Accra, March 15, GNA – Ryders Don’t Play (RDP) MC Ghana Chapter has partnered the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service to train commercial motor riders on road safety.
More than 25 commercial motor riders, popularly known as “Okada”, who transport passengers and deliver food and other items for a fee, participated in the training aimed at enhancing safety for riders, passengers and other road users.
Sergeant Yusif Braimah of the MTTD, addressing the riders, urged them to regularly check the tyres of their motorbikes before setting off to work, noting that the efficiency and safety of the machines largely depended on the condition of the tyres.
He advised riders to always wear protective gear such as helmets, knee guards and gloves and cautioned them against performing stunts on the road, explaining that such behaviour could easily result in accidents.
Sergeant Braimah also warned riders against riding on pavements or the white lines on the road, urging them to use the appropriate lanes and maintain a safe distance from vehicles or riders ahead of them.
“The same way you cannot drink and drive, you cannot drink and ride or use other harmful substances. The new amendment allows only 0.05 per cent alcohol level for every driver or rider,” he cautioned.
Sergeant Samuel Armah, another officer from the MTTD, advised riders to avoid distractions while riding, including the use of mobile phones, except through approved hands-free devices.
He cautioned riders against allowing roadside distractions to affect their concentration and urged them to prioritise focus and discipline on the road.
Sergeant Armah cautioned riders against fatigue riding and encouraged them to take adequate rest whenever they felt tired before continuing their journey.
He advised riders to give way to official convoys and refrain from joining them, warning that such conduct could lead to arrest for obstruction.
Mr Emmanuel Nyarkoh Hanson, a.k.a. Rock, Vice President of RDP MC Ghana Chapter, urged the riders to prioritise professionalism and decent appearance in their work to earn public trust and respect.
The training formed part of activities marking the sixth anniversary of the Chapter under the theme: “Road Safety,” aimed at creating awareness about road accidents and promoting professionalism and mutual respect among road users.
As part of the celebration, the group organised fun games with stakeholders and orphanages it has supported since its establishment in the country.
Beyond providing food and other support to the orphanages, the funfair also served as an opportunity for the organisation to interact with the community and highlight its contributions to social development.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency, Mr Collins Osei, a.k.a. No Stress, Founder of the Chapter, said the organisation was established in Ghana to support local orphanages and communities while fostering brotherhood among members.
He said the concept of the group went beyond motorcycle riding and focused on community support, networking, and assisting members in times of need.
“The concept of the brotherhood is not just about riding motorcycles. Our mission is to support local orphans and communities and also be there for one another,” he said.
Touching on the sixth anniversary celebration, Mr Osei commended members of the organisation for their commitment to philanthropic activities and community engagement.
On the theme for the anniversary, he said the Chapter sought to raise awareness on personal safety among riders to help reduce road crashes involving motorbikes.
“We want every rider to return home safely the same way they left, so wearing personal protective equipment while riding is very important to us,” he said.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey