ASSESSMENT OF THE CONTRIBUTION OF TRICYCLE TRANSPORTATION BUSINESS TO THE GROWTH OF THE LOCAL ECONOMY OF THE WA MUNICIPALITY

Abstract

Transportation is considered as a key factor in the socio-economic growth of any country. The main mode of public passenger transport in the Wa Municipality had been mainly mini buses (trotro). A new transport system called the tricycle transportation system was introduced, to complement the commercial transportation system in the Municipality. This study was conducted to assess the contribution of the tricycle transportation system to the growth of the local economy of Wa Municipality. Data was gathered from a sample of 329 respondents. Questionnaires, interviews and observations were the data collection tools employed in the study. The data gathered were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The study found that: the tricycle transportation business has created employment for 104 out of the 232 respondents. The tricycle transportation business had also reduced the long waiting time for vehicle by businessmen/women and this had contributed to increased productivity by way of increased labour hours, improved accessibility, and increased income of beneficiaries. It was again found that the tricycle transportation had enhanced mobility for the poor and vulnerable groups who do not have their own personal means of transportation. High returns (sales) demanded by owners from operators was identified as the most challenging issue facing tricycle drivers in the Municipality. The study concluded that the introduction of tricycle transportation business has contributed significantly to the economic growth of the Wa Municipality through employment creation, business growth and easy movement of people and goods. Again, it concluded that even though the tricycle transportation in the Municipality is contributing to economic growth, its operations are illegal. It was recommended that the GPRTU and other stakeholders should collaborate to regulate commercial tricycle operations in the region.