Two-wheeled empowerment

For some people, a bicycle is for fun, but for many South Africans, a bicycle symbolises hope.

Having a bicycle changes people’s lives by increasing the distance they can travel, what they can carry, where they can go and how fast they can get there. This is why Qhubeka, World Bicycle Relief’s programme in South Africa, believes in the power of bicycles.

Qhubeka is a Nguni word that means ‘to carry on’, ‘to progress’, or ‘to move forward’.

Through Qhubeka’s eco-programmes, participants earn a bicycle by growing 100 indigenous tree seedlings to a height of 30cm. The association has agreed to purchase some of these trees for planting in the Dainfern Estate.

They have also agreed to help raise awareness and funds for bicycles for residents of Diepsloot.

Of South Africa’s 16 million school children, 12 million walk to school and 500 000 spend more than two hours walking each day.

With a bicycle, commuting time is reduced by up to 75 percent, meaning learners arrive less tired and better able to concentrate in class.

The homeowners’ association has offered to host activities in Dainfern that build relationships with surrounding communities to raise awareness about Qhubeka and the benefits of bicycles, and to encourage cycling.

Reg Bernstein, general manager of the Dainfern Homeowners Association said, “Dainfern has decided to support the Qubeka initiative as it is aligned with the objectives of Dainfern’s social responsibility programme. It is also a green initiative, as well as a wonderful opportunity to uplift the surrounding disadvantaged community by facilitating the creation of employment and improving basic education with bicycles.”

Qhubeka director, Anthony Fitzhenry, said, “We are excited by the prospect of partnering with the Dainfern residents in community outreach and development, and delighted by the interest in our projects and our goal of mobilising people with bicycles. We’re looking forward to a fruitful partnership.”

Details: www.qhubeka.org.