By Abubakarr Sankoh

In a city designed by its hilly landscape, narrow streets, and constant traffic congestion, bike riding has emerged as a crucial part of Freetown’s transport system. Motorbikes, popularly known as “okadas,” have become indispensable for thousands of residents, providing quick and affordable transportation in a city where public transit options are daily challenges. Despite their importance, the okada industry faces numerous issues, from poor road infrastructure to inadequate safety measures. These challenges raise questions about how the city can improve its transport system while ensuring the safety of both riders and passengers.

Motorbike riders, many of whom are young men, have turned to the okada business as a source of employment in an economy where job opportunities are limited. For these riders, operating an okada is more than just a means to make ends meet—it’s a way of providing for their families. As Freetown’s population has grown, so too has the demand for quick, reliable transportation, making okadas a key player in the city’s transport ecosystem.

On the other hand, passengers, ranging from students and office workers to market traders and shoppers, rely heavily on okadas to navigate the city. For those living in areas with poor road access or few public transport options, motorbikes are often the only practical solution to get to school, work, or the market on time. However, with the convenience of okadas comes an inherent risk, as both riders and passengers must navigate dangerous road conditions and lax safety enforcement.

City authorities and traffic police also play an essential role, though they face significant challenges in regulating the fast-paced and often chaotic okada industry. While efforts have been made to improve road safety and enforce traffic laws, the implementation remains inconsistent, contributing to the overall challenges surrounding bike riding in Freetown.

Despite their significant role in Freetown’s transportation system, okada riders face numerous challenges that impact both their safety and the efficiency of the transport network. ArunaSesay, an okada rider in Lumley, said “The congestion of people and traffic has caused the police to stop us from parking and picking up passengers at certain spots around Lumley. Because of this, it is sometimes very difficult for us to earn enough to pay our bosses and take care of ourselves.” He said, one of the primary issues is the poor condition of the city’s roads. Potholes, broken sections and tracks dominate many areas of Freetown, particularly in neighbourhoods outside the central business district. For motorbike riders, these rough and often dangerous roads increase the risk of accidents, and navigating them requires constant vigilance.

Additionally, traffic congestion in Freetown’s major centres, such as the Lumley, Congo Cross, and downtown areas, experiences the challenges okada riders face. During peak traffic hours, okada riders often resort to taking shortcuts or weaving through cars in an attempt to beat traffic. While this may save time, it significantly increases the risk of accidents, especially in areas where traffic laws are rarely enforced.

The lack of proper traffic regulation and enforcement is another major concern. In many cases, riders and passengers alike do not wear helmets, and there is little regulation surrounding speed limits or safe driving practices. This combination of inadequate safety measures and poor law enforcement leads to frequent accidents, some of which result in serious injuries or fatalities. According to reports from local hospitals, the number of patients admitted due to motorbike-related injuries has risen in recent years, highlighting the urgent need for better safety standards.

The challenges surrounding bike riding in Freetown are an ongoing, daily occurrence. The city’s most congested areas, are hotspots for traffic issues and dangerous driving practices. These neighbourhoods, which are home to Freetown’s busiest markets, offices, and schools, see a high demand for transportation services, putting pressure on okada riders to meet the needs of the population.

Moreover, in areas where public transportation is limited or unavailable—particularly in the hilly regions on the outskirts of the city—okadas serve as a vital connection for residents. However, the poor road infrastructure in these areas only worsens the challenges riders face, further increasing the risk of accidents.

Bike riding in Freetown is more than just a convenience; it is a necessity for many residents. For young people, especially those without formal education or stable job prospects, the Okada business represents a lifeline. The industry provides a means of income for thousands of families, helping to address the high unemployment rate in the city. Okadas also fill the gap left by an underdeveloped public transportation system, offering residents an affordable way to travel quickly across the city.

For many passengers, okadas are the only viable option for commuting in a city where traffic congestion and limited bus services can make travel difficult and time-consuming. Whether it’s getting to work, dropping children off at school, or transporting goods to the market, okadas play an essential role in keeping Freetown’s economy and daily life moving.

While bike riding is an integral part of life in Freetown, there is a clear need for improvement in terms of safety and infrastructure. First and foremost, road safety must be prioritized. This includes enforcing the use of helmets for both riders and passengers, regulating driving behaviors, and implementing proper training programs for okada riders to improve their driving skills. Improving Freetown’s Road infrastructure could go a long way in addressing many of the challenges riders face. By maintaining roads and addressing issues such as potholes and unpaved streets, the city could reduce the risks associated with riding okadas, making the transportation system safer for everyone.

Public awareness campaigns on safe driving and the importance of following traffic laws would also be beneficial, as would increasing the presence of traffic police to enforce regulations consistently.

Bike riding is an important part of Freetown’s transport system, offering both convenience and economic opportunities to residents. However, without addressing the challenges of poor road conditions, traffic congestion, and inadequate safety measures, the risks associated with okadas may continue to rise. With the right balance of infrastructure improvements and safety regulations, Freetown can ensure that bike riding remains a safe and effective mode of transportation for years to come.