In rural Zimbabwe, it can be difficult to get fresh farm produce to market. An innovative electric tricycle program, however, is solving the problem while empowering local women.
TriplePundit featured the initiative, which was first piloted by Mobility Africa in 2019. Mobility Africa gives electric cargo tricycles to locals — mostly women — for transporting items like bananas, avocadoes, tomatoes, and cabbage on difficult-to-navigate rural roads and help get them to market.
Since its inception, the program has helped empower women, who are now able to contribute to their household economies. Participant Rudo Munguma pays a $10 fee per day, which includes servicing and battery swaps. On good days, she earns $30.
"My life has changed since I started working," participant Christine Mutsveta told TriplePundit. "I am now a breadwinner."
TCD Picks » Upway Spotlight
💡Upway makes it easy to find discounts of up to 60% on premium e-bike brands
Another driver, Anna Bhobho, told the Associated Press that her husband and in-laws have more respect for her now.
"No one used to listen to me, but now I have a seat when important decisions are being made," she told the news outlet.
The program has environmental benefits as well. Switching from gas-powered transportation to electric eliminates air pollution that's contributing to rising global temperatures. The program also uses solar energy to recharge its batteries.
Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance reported that a local health clinic is using Mobility Africa's e-tricycles to reach rural communities. The e-tricycles are helping the clinic surpass vaccination targets and provide outreach and other care.
Stay warm all winter long with the Apple of intelligent space heaters Kelvin is the Apple of space heaters, designed for energy efficiency and maximum comfort. It's completely silent and intelligently controlled, with setup taking just 5 minutes. Built from premium materials like aluminum and glass, Kelvin works beautifully as a full-home heating system or as the perfect solution for that one room that never feels warm enough. |
Globally, e-bike sales are surging, whether for commutes, leisure, or the transport of goods. According to Fortune Business Insights, the global electric bike market is projected to grow from $50.14 billion in 2024 to $148.70 billion by 2032.
Traveling via e-bikes and e-trikes can help save users money on transportation while supporting their overall health. One 2022 study found that e-cycling improved mental and physical well‐being and that people felt happier while biking.
|
Would you be more likely to drive an EV if you could charge it in 5 minutes? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
Yes 👍 If you'd like to experience the benefits of e-cycling, Upway is an excellent place to find an e-bike that fits your needs. Upway offers a variety of models, and many cost up to 60% less than retail prices.
If you're looking to upgrade, Upway also buys used e-bikes. For even more savings, going solar at home can help bring down charging costs on your new e-bike. TCD's Solar Explorer offers an array of resources to help you get started.
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
Cool Picks
