The Anambra State Government has taken a significant step forward in improving the transportation sector by introducing a new tracking system for tricycles (Keke). Official launch of the initial roll out of implementation of the tracking system took place at UHBET Center, Awka, today, August 20, 2024. This innovative initiative is designed to address key concerns that have long plagued Keke operators, such as vehicle theft and unfair charges, while also improving overall security and efficiency in the sector.
BENEFITS OF THE TRACKER TECHNOLOGY:
The introduction of the tracking technology brings multiple benefits:
Theft Prevention and Recovery:
The tracker will help in the swift recovery of stolen tricycles, significantly reducing the risk of theft and ensuring that Keke operators can work with peace of mind.
Fair Payment System:
The system ensures that operators are not unfairly charged for days when their Keke is not in use. This fairness in billing will prevent operators from incurring unnecessary costs, promoting a more equitable payment system.
Enhanced Security:
By monitoring the location and movement of tricycles, the tracker improves the overall security of Keke operations, making both riders and passengers feel safer.
COST OF IMPLEMENTATION:
The tracking system operates on a Pay-As-You-Go basis. The keke riders will pay for the cost of the tracker device of N35,000 (Thirty five Thousand Naira only) on installment basis of N250 (Two Hundred and Fifty Naira) daily. This flexible payment structure is designed to make the technology accessible to all operators.
GOVERNMENT”S OBJECTIVES:
Dr. Greg Ezeilo, FCA, ACTI., The Chairman/Chief Executive of the Anambra State Internal Revenue Service during the program, emphasized that the primary goal of the tracker device is to support Keke operators by ensuring fairness and transparency in the transportation sector. He noted that the initiative will benefit not only the Keke riders but also the government by formalizing and regulating the sector more effectively.
The Executive Chairman maintained that the flexible payment structure of N250 daily is designed to make the tracker device accessible to all operators. He explained that all Keke operators in the State will be required to install the tracker on their tricycles, with proof of installation before they can legally operate their keke. The slogan
“NO PAY, NO WORK; NO WORK, NO PAY; COMMERCIAL TRANSPORT FAIRNESS”,
He said reflects the commitment to ensuring fairness and transparency in the transportation sector.
Contributing, Mr. Ben Anierobi Okafor, the Executive Director (Assessment in Anambra State Internal Revenue Service) highlighted that the need for this technology arose from numerous complaints regarding unfair charges, high rates of Keke theft, and security issues. He explained that the tracker technology is seen as a solution to these problems, creating a more just and secure environment for Keke operators.
PARTNERSHIP AND SUPPORT:
The Chief Technology Officer of TransPay, Mr. Tony Ugo-Okoye contributed to the discussion, highlighting the collaborative effort to develop and implement the tracking technology. He explained that a mandatory installation and activation of the tracking device will be required by all Keke operators in Anambra State, pointing out that any Keke operating without an active tracker will be easily identified and may be made to face penalty, fines, or have their tricycle impounded.
Highpoint of the program is the official launch of the tracking technology at UHBET Center in Awka that marks a significant milestone in the State’s efforts to digitalize and formalize the informal transportation sector. This initiative is expected to set a new standard for transportation management in Anambra State, benefiting both operators and the public.
