Bus conducting (mates) by convention used to be a trade held in reserve for males, but not anymore, as female bus conductors are gradually on the increase in recent times.
Speaking to Business Daily, some female conductors in the Sekondi-Takoradi have recounted the urge to engage in the bus conducting business.
Business Daily gathered that most of these female conductors were engaged in trades which they now consider less attractive as compared to bus conducting.
“I decided to become a mate in my uncle’s vehicle because he needed one. I used to sell food at the Sekondi trotro station. Initially, I was shy about the profession but later, I overcame the shyness because I want to work.”
“I became a breadwinner at age 14. It is through this job that I have been able to cater for myself, my mother and my daughter. I have been in this profession since 2003 after my father’s demise.”
Sharing their challenges in their line of duty, they said, passengers sometimes argue with them on price fares despite a huge in petroleum prices.
“The passengers always fight and argue with us over the transport charges. I don’t allow them to intimidate me. Just like us, our male colleagues also face such challenges.
We make the price list available to them but they still don’t agree to pay what is printed on the list. ”
“Although there are more vehicles in operation, we manage to make ends meet by the grace of God.”
They said, working as a mate is helping them to cater for the needs of their family as well as themselves.
“This job pays a lot. It helps me to take care of my needs, besides that, I know how to drive.” “Being a mate has helped me to cater for my mother and daughter. This business is profitable. I can say, this is more profitable than being a banker. I’m able to save money daily for my upkeep.”
Drivers who work with female conductors are full of praises for them.
They describe them as honest with money and calm in nature .
