164 Bikes, 984 Lives: Pedalling a Sustainable Future in Malawi
May 2025Re-Cycle Bikes to Africa
Charity Partner
This May, your support helped us invest in 164 bicycles for families in rural Malawi, unlocking opportunities for education, healthcare, and economic growth. These bicycles aren’t just tools for mobility; they’re part of a self-sustaining ecosystem that empowers communities to thrive.
Working with Re-Cycle and their partner AfriCycle, local mechanics are trained to refurbish and repair these bicycles, creating skilled jobs and long-term sustainability. Some bicycles are sold at affordable prices through microloans, making them accessible to even the most vulnerable families. Profits from sales are reinvested into childcare and community projects, ensuring a ripple effect of positive change.
For the 984 people who benefit directly, these bicycles mean shorter school commutes, faster access to healthcare, and the ability to transport goods to markets. But more than that, they mean independence, opportunity, and brighter futures - all powered by your investment in sustainable solutions.
Re-Cycle – Bikes to Africa is a UK-based charity dedicated to empowering communities across Africa by providing bicycles. Since its founding in 1997, the organisation has transformed thousands of lives in rural Africa by supplying bicycles that improve access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. With continued support, Re-Cycle aims to do even more, fostering a positive and self-sustaining cycle of change. Re-Cycle believes a bicycle is far more than a means of transportation—it is a gateway to opportunity. In rural Africa, where public transport is often unavailable, bicycles reduce travel times by up to 75%, making schools, healthcare facilities, and markets more accessible. The impact of bicycles extends beyond mobility. Research demonstrates that students with access to bicycles are 30% more likely to attend school regularly, significantly enhancing their chances of graduating. This effect is especially transformative for women and girls, who gain greater mobility and independence, enabling them to pursue education, access healthcare, and engage in economic activities. Bicycles also play a vital role in driving economic growth by improving access to work and markets. Families with bicycles experience an increase in household incomes of up to 35%, as they can transport goods more efficiently and seize new job opportunities. For many, a bicycle marks the difference between mere survival and the ability to build sustainable livelihoods, helping individuals and families create brighter futures.
