Courier Riders Demand YEA Action on Soaring Licensing Fees and Postal Commission Arrests

A collective of worried courier motor riders has formally approached Malik Basintale, the Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), in light of recent enforcement measures taken by the Ghana Postal and Courier Services Regulatory Commission.

On Tuesday, August 20, the Commission initiated a rigorous operation in Accra aimed at unlicensed courier operators.

During this operation, numerous motorbikes were confiscated, an action the Commission labeled as part of its initiative to clean up the courier industry.

In reaction, the riders, along with their union, protested at the YEA offices on Wednesday, August 21, to express their dissatisfaction.

They contended that the expenses associated with obtaining a courier license are excessively high and unjust, particularly considering their low income.

The riders also highlighted that, in contrast to drivers on e-hailing services like Uber and Bolt—who only need a driver’s license—courier riders must secure additional licenses at significant costs.

They characterized this requirement as discriminatory and called for a reassessment.

Directly appealing to Malik Basintale, the petitioners requested that the YEA step in on their behalf and engage with the Postal and Courier Services Commission to lower licensing fees to a more manageable amount.

They emphasized that without these measures, numerous individuals might experience job losses, further worsening the problem of youth unemployment in the country.

What YEA CEO says

In response to their petition, Malik Basintale expressed his appreciation to the courier riders for coming to his office to voice their concerns, highlighting that he empathizes with their situation as a fellow motorcycle rider.

He recognized the vital role of courier services, stressing that their efforts significantly enhance the convenience for customers who place orders from the comfort of their homes.

Mr. Basintale revealed that he has already discussed the matter of courier riders’ arrests with Ningo-Prampram MP, Sam George, and a directive has been issued to halt such operations.

“I placed a call to Sam George [Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations] today, and the arrest of courier riders has been suspended to pave the way for further engagement,” he noted.