Few job prospects and low income force many Egyptians to create their own job opportunity, mainly by driving passengers in a three-wheeled motorbike, known as a "Toktok." Toktoks, are the most convenient way to travel through Cairo's bumpy corridors and traffic jams. They are also an excellent way to make a living. Now more than three million "Toktoks" are operating on Egypt's streets. The drivers are mostly children and young men.
Egypt's Young Workers Driving 'Toktoks'
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Toktoks are waiting for passengers at the subway station of Sayeda Zaynab in old Cairo. (H. Elrasam/VOA)
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A toktok owner, and driver Mohamed Gafaar says, "It is not the best option for work, it is not a craft to master, but I need money to get married." (H. Elrasam/VOA)
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Ahmed Ibrahim, a 78-year-old handmade leather designer for wallets, says "I do not think this profession will last for long, the young generations are hoping to earn easier money by driving toktoks." (H. Elrasam/VOA)
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Toktok driver Akram says, "Driving toktok is much better than wasting time with friends on coffee shops or sharing a rolled cigarette. On my toktok, I can make money." (H. Elrasam/VOA)
