LocationsUNDP facilitates national dialogue between bike riders’ union and state authorities.
June 20, 2024
A group photo at the Bike Riders and State Authorities Dialogue
In a landmark initiative, UNDP has facilitated a national dialogue between the National Bike Riders Union of Sierra Leone and State Authorities, fostering a historic consensus on key issues. This dialogue was held under the Empowering Youth Bike Riders as Agents of Peace Project, funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund.
The engagement marked a significant milestone in promoting understanding and collaboration between the Bike Riders Union and the State Authorities including Sierra Leone Police , and the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) paving the way for a more harmonious and peaceful relationship. The consensus achieved during the dialogue is expected to have a positive impact on the country, promoting stability and development.
Sayed Sahibzada, Deputy Representative of UNDP Sierra Leone speaking at the opening of the national dialogue
Speaking at the National Dialogue, the Deputy Representative of UNDP Sierra Leone, Mr. Sayed Sahibzada, highlighted the significant role bike riders play in the country's society. He said,
“In recognition of their vital role, Resolution 2250, adopted in 2015, acknowledges young people including youth bike riders as agents of peace and security, emphasizing their importance in maintaining national stability and youth empowerment. With over one million individuals involved in this sector, bike riders are the backbone of Sierra Leone's economy, supporting numerous households. They make substantial contributions to the country's economic growth, and their impact extends to peace and security. Resolution 2250, adopted in 2015, focuses on youth, peace, and security, encompassing all bike riders as agents of peace and security in the country”.
Bai Tarawallie, the Vice President of the Bike Rider Union, expressed heartfelt thanks to the government, international partners, and particularly UNDP for recognizing their efforts. He appreciated UNDP's support in providing a platform for dialogue and capacity building for the bike riders' sector.
Tarawallie acknowledged the existing tensions between the Bike Riders Union and State authorities but affirmed their commitment to fostering positive change and collaborating towards a harmonious relationship.
Bai Tarawallie, Vice President of the Bike Rider Union speaking at the opening of the national dialogue.
Hon. Mohamed Orman Bangura, Minister of Youth Affairs, highlighted the crucial role of bike riders in society, highlighting their substantial contributions to public transportation and the economy. He reiterated government’s dedication to facilitating the Bike Rider Union’s transition into a cooperative entity, aimed at improving service delivery and fostering peace.
Hon. Mohamed Orman Bangura, Minister of Youth Affairs
The Director of Training of the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), Madam Hassanatu Judith Mansaray, acknowledged the rise of motorbikes as a new form of public transportation in Sierra Leone. She noted many of the new riders lack a basic understanding of road signs and road safety measures, such as respective road signs, driving within allowable speed limits, and carrying just one passenger at a time. She highlighted the role of SLRSA in regulating and coordinating road traffic and ensuring law and order for enhanced road safety. She encouraged participants to utilize this initiative for conflict prevention and mitigation.
The representative of the Sierra Leone Police, Assistant Inspector General for Gender and Community Affairs, Mr. Mustapha Kamara, underscored the institution’s commitment to enforcing the law and maintaining order. He acknowledged the importance of such dialogues to resolve conflicts and foster mutual understanding between riders and Sierra Leone Police.
The national dialogue was facilitated by the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC). KAIPTC had previously conducted a Training of Trainers on Conflict Prevention and Frontline Negotiations for senior Sierra Leone Police personnel, SLRSA traffic wardens, Local Policing Partnership Board Chairpersons and Youth Civil Society Organizations training officers.
A group photo of the team of facilitators from the Kofi Annan Peace Keeping Training Centre, UNDP and UNCDF staff at the dialogue.
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