Visibility On The Bike
-
by
emma
In Mfuwe, Zambia, a single road is shared by cars, bicycles, and pedestrians. However, when darkness falls at night, cyclists face a significant problem – the lack of bicycle lights and reflectors makes them hard to see. As part of our community development efforts, our goal is to create a safer environment by equipping cyclists with reflectors, enabling them to ride safely even in low-light conditions. This project focuses on education and empowerment, raising awareness about visibility on the bike and reducing the occurrence of accidents.
The Dream
Our dream is to ensure that Mfuwe becomes a place where every cyclist understands the importance of being visible on the road, especially during darker hours. As a foundation, we aim to be the catalyst for a movement in which community members educate each other about the importance of visibility in traffic. By providing reflective gear and spreading awareness about its significance, we want to ensure that cyclists can travel safely, free from the risks of poor visibility.
Realising the Dream
To turn our dream into reality, we will actively engage with the Mfuwe community. The foundation plays a facilitating role, bringing together stakeholders such as lodges and businesses, along with the community. Together, we will conduct research to determine the most effective methods that suit the local context, ultimately leading to communities educating one another. By involving community members, we aim to establish a sustainable practice of peer education. Through mutual learning and sharing, individuals will become safety promoters, continuously educating and reminding each other about the importance of being visible while cycling.
Long-Term Impact
The long-term impact of our community-driven initiative extends beyond immediate safety improvements. By fostering a culture of safety and awareness, we envision a significant shift in the mindset and behaviors of cyclists in Mfuwe. This project will not only reduce accidents but also cultivate a sense of collective responsibility for personal and community well-being.