Community receives 50 bicycles to boost education and opportunity

This Transport Month, vulnerable communities in rural South Africa are gaining new opportunities thanks to a partnership with Qhubeka, the non-profit organisation whose motto is “Bicycles Change Lives," and Zutari, a leading infrastructure engineering and advisory firm.

As part of the initiative, 50 bicycles were handed over in areas such as Groot Marico, helping learners and community members access schools, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

The initiative promotes sustainable mobility, addressing long, unsafe walking distances that often contribute to school drop-outs, while also supporting economic participation through structured “learn-to-earn” and “work-to-earn” programmes.

“This Transport Month, we celebrate transport as the system and mobility as the experience, building infrastructure that enables safe, affordable, and sustainable mobility for all,” says Jaco Bruwer, technical director: transport at Zutari.

“Engineering impact is about more than designing bridges or roads; it’s about creating solutions that change lives. And these bicycles are now part of that impact, transforming lives while positioning us as a trusted partner in sustainable transport solutions and community empowerment,” adds Bruwer.

The programme will track measurable outcomes, such as improved school attendance and broader community benefits, ensuring accountability and lasting impact.

By combining mobility, education, and economic empowerment, the initiative highlights the transformative power of sustainable transport and demonstrates how innovative solutions can directly improve the lives of South Africans.