For it is by far one of the coolest things I got to do in Tanzania!
A few of my friends at my old job emptied their pockets, drawers, and couches for loose change, scrounging together enough money for me to buy 4 bicycles to donate whilst in Tanzania.
Riding a bicycle is by far the most popular mode of transportation in Tanzania, even though they are incredibly expensive for local people. Which is why second-hand markets are very popular and why the locals use what they have until it disintegrates or is tattered beyond recognition. All things considered, bicycles are by far the best way to go: easy to maintain, long-lasting, convenient, non-polluting, and, let's be honest, life-giving for a lot of people. Bicycles allow people to have an income, reliable transportation, and independence.
I decided that donating bicycles to the friends I made in Tanzania would be a practical way to help improve their lives and help them improve the lives of others. For 2 of the bicycles will be used for medical teams traveling in the desert to local bomas (Maasai neighborhoods) that are far from paved roads or even drivable dirt roads. The other 2 will be dolled out as needed, to families or individuals that can benefit from a bicycle. Pretty cool, huh? And such an easy way to help out our friends in Africa!
George was my friend who bought the bicycles for me, since he's African and would get the best price.
The bicycles had everything--locking kickstands, pumps, generator lights, and rear racks!
The generators even lit up red rear lights too!
Some of my friends prepping the bicycles.
Phoenix bicycles, made in China, are THE bicycle to have in Tanzania. Now there are 4 more on the roads!
