Understanding Okada and Keke operations in Freetown

Abstract

Congestion is one of the major challenges to urban mobility in Freetown. A major contributing factor to this challenge is the operation of two and three wheelers (okadas and kekes) who usually ignore traffic rules, congregate disorderly at intersections and are one of the leading causes of road traffic incidents and accidents according to the Sierra Leone Police Road Accident Data for 2019. In addition to the accidents and road safety issues, the rising number of low occupancy vehicles contribute to the noise and air pollution in the city which in turn contribute to public health issues. On the other hand, they provide a valuable public transport service, navigating the hilly topography of Freetown to get commuters to their destinations. In a bid to modernise and professionalise public transport services, it is necessary to understand the operations of these low occupancy vehicles and proffer solutions for improved level and quality of service providing last mile connectivity. This paper concludes that, okada and keke are an unsafe mode of transportation dominated by young male operators, who may not prioritise their safety. A key recommendation is regulating this mode of transportation through the implementation of zonal licensing and training.