The United States wants to empower rural dwellers in Sub-Saharan Africa with affordable bicycles to enhance mobility.

The Bicycles for Growth initiative being piloted by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is expected to take $3.5 million in funding.

In a statement released on Monday, USAID said the programme aims to improve sustainable access to affordable bicycles in sub-Saharan Africa.

J.E. Austin Association and World Bicycle Relief will collaborate with the USAID.

The programme will support research on the supply, demand, and supporting systems for access to bicycles in Ghana, Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zambia.

“Based on the results of the assessment phase, the teams will implement pilot projects in four to six localities across two of these countries with the goal of reducing barriers to increased supply and uptake of low-cost, durable, and adjustable bicycles.

“The Bicycle for Growth Initiative represents a simple, but effective approach to addressing a common development challenge,” according to the statement.

The group is expected to develop and demonstrate ways to swiftly increase bicycle uptake for individuals who cannot afford or do not have other means of transportation.

“Many communities throughout sub-Saharan Africa struggle to access health services, education, economic opportunities, and basic social services due to long distances and limited transportation options.

“For rural communities, these challenges are particularly acute. Walking is the main mode of transportation in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa.

“Bicycles can provide an affordable, accessible, reliable, and efficient alternative to walking, offering more carrying capacity and easier access to necessary destinations,” the statement added.