The Village Bicycle Project (VBP) is making significant strides in empowering Ghana and Sierra Leone communities by strengthening bicycle culture. Their comprehensive programs offer quality subsidized bicycles paired with hands-on maintenance training for new owners, ensuring that bikes remain dependable, affordable, and sustainable transportation.
VBP’s approach is holistic and community-focused. The project ensures long-term bike maintenance and sustainability by providing village bike mechanics with detailed training, specialized tools, and spare parts. Moreover, VBP specifically targets women and girls, who often face gender inequalities that limit their access to bicycles. By including them in the programs, VBP addresses these inequalities, providing them with the means to greater mobility and independence.
The impact of VBP programs is profound. Improved mobility through cycling boosts productivity by providing better access to jobs, schools, and healthcare. The environmental and health benefits of cycling further enhance the attractiveness of this mode of transportation. VBP’s efforts make cycling an appealing choice for entire communities, fostering growth and development.
Thanks to the support of donors, volunteers, and partner organizations worldwide, VBP has distributed tens of thousands of bicycles, enabling many to spend less time in transit and more time improving their lives. As of late 2023, VBP has sent 142,000 bikes to Ghana and Sierra Leone, trained 23,500 people in repair skills, taught 4,200 women and girls to ride, and distributed 61,500 tools to keep bikes rolling.
There are several ways to get involved with VBP. Financial donations provide bicycles and maintenance training to people in rural villages, developing cycling culture and improving mobility. Donating a bicycle involves connecting with nearby organizations to collect and ship used bikes, parts, and tires to Ghana and Sierra Leone. Volunteers can also find opportunities to work directly with VBP both at home and in the field.
The Village Bicycle Project is not just about bicycles; it’s about transforming lives and empowering communities through sustainable transportation. Join the movement and make a difference today.