By eastafrican gazette and Agencies
In Zimbabwe, walking and cycling long distances has become a regular part of daily life, whether it is for commuting or simply getting around.
This shift in transportation habits can be attributed to the fuel shortage and other difficulties faced by the country, which have made it challenging for people to rely on their motor vehicles.
Even the relatively affluent class has now embraced the use of bicycles, particularly in the capital city of Harare.
While some may view this change as an inconvenience, Mayor Jacob Mafume emphasizes that despite the challenges, an increase in the number of people cycling or walking to work will have positive effects.
It will help reduce pollution caused by vehicle emissions, alleviate congestion, and decrease the occurrence of accidents on top of being cost effective.
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He stressed that cycling allows individuals to allocate their resources towards housing, education, and investments when utilizing bicycles.
Mafuma said it is also eco-friendly, resulting in minimal impact on the environment.
“People would thank us later for this, as they will live to ripe old age in fitness,” he noted.
He emphasized that individuals were experiencing health problems due to their lack of physical activity, as a significant amount of time was spent sitting in offices and commuting back home.
Segio Tarwirei, an employee of Tree Knowers and Growers, an NGO that promotes tree conservation, explains that cycling has so many physical benefits.
“Driving is not good for the environment as cars release dirt into the atmosphere. As an organization — of Tree Knowers and Growers — we encourage people to cycle. If I was using public transport, I would be paying $4 daily, at the end of the month it would be a lot of money, so cycling is good for health and the pocket,” he added.
Tarwirei urged city authorities of Harare to prioritize the restoration of cycling tracks that have been neglected for an extended period.
Mafume acknowledged his awareness of the deteriorated condition of cycling lanes within the capital city.
“We are going to revamp them,” he said.