A GoFundMe highlights cycling cities: The African experience
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A groundbreaking initiative is underway that highlights how African cities are leading the charge in sustainable urban mobility through cycling.
The project, spearheaded by a dedicated non-profit organization, focuses on documenting the stories of cities that have become global leaders in bicycle-friendly infrastructure. Through the book “Cycling Cities,” this initiative aims to showcase how 17 cities across Africa—from Aba to Zomba, including major hubs like Cairo and Cape Town—have successfully integrated cycling into their urban environments.
“Cycling Cities” isn’t just another book; it’s a tool for sustainable change. By bringing together interdisciplinary voices from across Africa and Europe, this project provides invaluable insights into how cycling has historically shaped African cities and how it can continue to do so in the future. The book aims to support African authors by bringing their crucial research into the spotlight, fostering a broader understanding of the continent’s unique approach to sustainable mobility.
This initiative also addresses the growing concern of neocolonial pressures on African nations. As global powers push for a future dominated by next-generation electric vehicles—often only affordable to the wealthy—the book argues that Africa’s cycling legacy offers a far more equitable and sustainable path. For over a century, Africans have adapted cycling to meet their needs, finding autonomy and sustainability within colonial and postcolonial systems. This overlooked history provides valuable lessons that can guide global efforts to create more sustainable cities.
The project’s broader goal is to enhance the capacity of the “Think Bike” movement across Africa. By supporting this book, backers are not only helping to publish critical research but are also contributing to the distribution of learning materials in schools and libraries across the continent. These resources will help educate communities on the benefits of cycling and inspire the development of more bike-friendly cities.
With a network of partners including academics, policymakers, activists, artists, and students, the success of “Cycling Cities” promises to strengthen and expand the community of cycling advocates across Africa. The more books distributed, the stronger this community becomes, paving the way for a sustainable and cycling-friendly future in cities across the continent.
