Landmark Study by World Bicycle Relief and IDinsight Provides Critical Evidence on the Power of Bicycles to Boost Livelihoods and Empower Rural Communities LUSAKA, Zambia , Oct. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- World Bicycle Relief (WBR), a non-profit social enterprise that supports rural and remote communities by helping adults and children overcome transportation barriers, in collaboration with IDInsight, today announced the results of a pioneering randomized controlled trial (RCT) that demonstrates the transformative impact of bicycles on livelihoods and health service delivery among adults in rural Zambia . With a particular focus on outcomes for women, the study provides robust evidence that bicycles can significantly improve access to essential services, boost economic productivity, and build resilience in some of the world's most underserved communities.
In many rural, remote communities, mobility poverty—the lack of safe, affordable, and reliable transportation—acts as a significant barrier, keeping individuals from accessing essential services and opportunities. In Africa , 70% of rural populations face this challenge, often forced to walk long distances to reach schools, health facilities, or markets 1 . In commissioning this research study, World Bicycle Relief sought to demonstrate how bicycles could address these challenges through a rigorous, evidence-based approach.
This research was initiated to provide critical data on how improved mobility with bicycles can tran.
