Accra Bicycle Caravan Events Grow

Posted: 01 May 2003

Related to: Promoting Cycling in Africa, Planning & Advocacy for Cycling & Walking, Ghana
Contributed by: Aimee Gauthier, ITDP

The first Accra Bicycle Caravan, led by former Mayor of Bogotá Enrique Peñalosa, was held on January 25th. A second, bigger ride is now on track for May 31st thanks to sponsorship provided by Promasidor Ghana, the manufacturer and distributor of Cowbell milk and other dairy products.

Aiming to top the 300 riders that partook in the first caravan, an $8000-plus publicity and event campaign currently includes radio ads, posters, flyers and balloons.

The day itself will feature a five-bike giveaway along with a variety of booths, activities and refreshments. A bicycle maintenance booth will be on hand, prepped to train interested parties in the BikeWell program. A popular mountain bike tour company located in the nearby Aburi hills, which offers guided as well as self-guided rides, will man a booth as well.

Participation certificates and event T-shirts will be provided to all bikers, and there will be guided police, security and vehicles to guard them en route. The ride will promote biking benefits like good health, exercise and fun.