Pan-African Alliance for People & Active Mobility

Developing economies in Africa and the Global South should embrace a positive mindset towards the bicycle as a powerful tool for sustainable development. Bicycles are not only affordable and accessible, but they also offer practical solutions to urban mobility challenges while reducing carbon emissions. In regions where infrastructure is still evolving, cycling promotes inclusive access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, especially for youth and women. As climate change and urban congestion intensify, bicycles serve as an eco-friendly, health-promoting, and economically viable alternative to motorized transport.

Organizations like TEENS Uganda are leading the way in advocating for sustainable, low-carbon transport options. Their grassroots efforts have empowered communities, especially the youth, to adopt cycling as a daily mode of transport, enhancing both environmental and social well-being. These initiatives culminated in a major milestone—the launch of the Pan-African Alliance for People and Active Mobility (PAAPAM) at the World Urban Forum in Cairo 2024. This platform marks a significant step toward coordinated, continent-wide advocacy and investment in active mobility. By recognizing the value of the bicycle, African nations can foster greener cities, healthier populations, and more resilient economies—making the bicycle not just a vehicle, but a catalyst for sustainable change.