WFSGI stresses the “power of bicycles” as it becomes supporter of World Bicycle Relief

The World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry has become a supporter of World Bicycle Relief’s advocacy work.

Founded in 2005, World Bicycle Relief mobilises people through “The Power of Bicycles” and accomplishes its mission by distributing specially-designed, high-quality bicycles through philanthropic and social enterprise programs in Africa, Southeast Asia and South America.

The purpose-designed bicycles are built to withstand the challenging terrain and conditions in rural, developing areas. Entrepreneurs use the bicycles to increase productivity and profits. Students attend class more regularly and their academic performances improve. And, health care workers visit more patients in less time, providing better, more consistent care.

World Bicycle Relief also promotes local economies and long-term sustainability by assembling bicycles locally and training field mechanics to service the bicycles. To date, World Bicycle Relief has delivered over 375,000 bicycles and trained over 1,800 field mechanics. It has assembly facilities in Kenya, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Angola.

A number of major cycle companies are members of WFSGI.

President and CEO Robbert de Kock said: “As part of our bylaws we ‘foster and encourage the participation of citizens of all countries in healthy sporting activities’ and ‘help create a better world through sport’. World Bicycle Relief creates these opportunities in several different ways through cycling.”

WFSGI bicycle committee chair Jeroen Snijders Blok welcomes the collaboration with WBR: “The endorsement shows the positive impact bicycles can have. It lies at the heart of our industry to seize that power and raise awareness.”