Bike Zambia Rides On In 2013
In June 2012, Bike Zambia, the ride to raise awareness of poverty and HIV/AIDS in Africa, completed a 305-mile ride from the capital city, Lusaka, to Victoria Falls in Livingstone over 5 days. This team of 34 cyclists raised over $150,000, providing contributions to four different beneficiary organizations, including World Bicycle Relief, and making a difference to local communities across Zambia. Zambia is one of Africa's poorest countries. It has one of the highest rates of HIV/AIDS infection with more than 1 in 7 adults is living with HIV/AIDS. One in 6 children are orphans and the current life expectancy at birth is age 39. One of the greatest ways to change things is through education and awareness.
Bike Zambia's goal is three-fold:
- Increase awareness of HIV/AIDS health and wellness programs available in Zambia
- Raise money for HIV/AIDS-related NGO’s that have proven themselves effective
- Promote cycling as a means of transportation for people to get to the care they need
This year, the ride will take place June 23-July 7 and World Bicycle Relief will once again be a beneficiary. Bike Zambia and World Bicycle Relief have similar beliefs. Both are driven by the use of bicycles as a development tool; both are driven to impact the AIDS crisis in southern Africa; both believe that locally appropriate solutions are key.
While the ride is a powerful awareness and fundraising activity, it's also a personally life-changing experience for each rider. Teammate JD Bergeron notes, "Some of our riders last year were making their first trip to Africa. Seeing Zambia in the open air on a bicycle is perhaps one of the most authentic, amazing ways to experience the continent."
World Bicycle Relief is proud to be supported by Bike Zambia. We wish JD and all of the riders safe cycling. Thank you all for your commitment to the Power of Bicycles!
Follow Bike Zambia on Facebook and Twitter>
Watch this Video by Kiva Director & Bike Zambia Cyclist JD Bergeron>
