Bicycles for Children in Rural Villages
In The Gambia, many children live in remote villages where schools are difficult to reach. Public transport is scarce, unreliable, and often unaffordable, forcing children to walk long distances under the scorching sun just to attend school.
The Bikes for a Safer Journey to School project provides bicycles to children and families, enabling easier, safer, and more reliable access to education and everyday activities.
Location
Kerewan Samba Sira, The Gambia
Duration
The project started in May 2025 and is ongoing.
Objective
To purchase and distribute bicycles to children and families in the community, improving access to education, mobility, and daily life opportunities.
Beneficiaries
Children, youth, and other residents of the village of Kerewan Samba Sira.
Activities
Fundraising for bicycles, procurement and distribution of bicycles to children and families, coordination with local community leaders, and follow-up support to ensure fair and effective use.
Impact
• Increased mobility and independence for children • Improved access to education for children from remote and vulnerable backgrounds • Strengthened community connectivity and long-term development
The Bikes for Kerewan Samba Sira project was created in response to a clear and urgent community need. With the support of sponsors, volunteers, and generous donors, bicycles were delivered to children and youth who previously walked several kilometers to school every day.
Priority was given to children from villages located far from schools, who often arrived tired before lessons even began. Several bicycles were also provided to adults, helping them with daily tasks, commuting to work, and participating in community activities.
In this context, a bicycle is not a luxury — it is a vital means of transport that opens doors to education, knowledge, and opportunity.
Importance for the Community
Since the distribution of bicycles, village leaders are approached daily by parents and children requesting support, clearly demonstrating the immense value of bicycles in this community. With an average cost of approximately €60 per bicycle, ownership is beyond the financial reach of most families.
Each bicycle represents:
- more time and energy for learning,
- greater safety on the way to school,
- a reduced risk of dropping out due to distance,
- hope for a better future.
Who Does the Project Help?
Children and Youth
- Easier, faster, and safer access to school
- Reduced fatigue and absenteeism
- Greater chances of completing their education
Families
- Relief from physically demanding daily journeys
- Reduced concerns about children’s safety and health
Community
- Strengthened education and long-term village development
- Increased mobility and independence of residents
What's next?
The Bikes for Kerewan Samba Sira project continues. The need is great, and the desire for education even greater. Every donation — regardless of size — creates a new opportunity.
How You Can Support the Project
Your contribution enables:
- safer and faster access to education,
- more time and energy for learning,
- continued schooling for children who might otherwise give up,
- hope for every child dreaming of a better tomorrow.
Donation Details
Account Name: VOLUNTEER TRAILS – THE GAMBIA
Account Number (GMD): 6240037610
Account Number (EUR): 6240037611
Swift Code: ECOCGMGMXXX
Beneficiary Bank: Ecobank Gambia Ltd.
Beneficiary Bank Address: 42 Kairaba Avenue, Serekunda – The Gambia.