A bike we made
The day started slowly but picked up its pace as the hours ran down. We had been invited by World Bicycle Relief to witness its initial distribution of bikes to Zambian students. The program started an hour late, which gave us the opportunity to interact with the villagers. The Deputy Minister of Education was invited and some other top officials graced the occasion. The Deputy Minister elaborated on the importance of the bikes and their role in society. He also thanked World Bicycle Relief for their efforts and generosity in helping the vulnerable. The deputy minister advised the villagers about the significance of maintaining the bikes. He also touched on the history, present and future of the program and thanked those who attended the ceremony. He talked about the plan to distribute 50,000 bicycles nationwide. He emphasized education and how the bikes will be a useful tool to a better learning. Mr. Clement strictly advised the recipients to be responsible, to take care of the machines and to use them for the intended purpose.
Tyrhee gets interviewed
by a Zambian TV station
The president of World Bicycle Relief, Mr. F.K. Day, also spoke at the ceremony. He talked about his commitment to education and the future of Zambia. Mr. Day was inspired by the fighting spirit of the community and the children as whole. He believed that the gift of education is the greatest gift a child can receive. He elaborated on the quality of the bikes and the rules of maintenance. He said they had trained about 500 field mechanics and 500 more will be involve as the program grows. The recipients signed a contract of commitment to go to school for a specific amount of time. The community leaders are to administer the terms of the contract. Each recipient is responsible for the bike and expected to use the bike according to the rules of contract.
Nina hands out a bike
at the Ceremony
The occasion was fantastic. I was moved by the joy a simple bike brings to a community. I shed tears when the stories of the village children were being told. They have overcome difficulties. They have endured daily struggles. It was amazing the way villagers showed gratitude. The experience I had cannot be expressed in words. I enjoyed each and every bit of the trip. You won’t believe what a single bicycle can do for a local Zambian. I am really glad that I made it here and that we have made a great difference.
Alphius, a student at Central High School