2009 target surpassed
At the start of 2009, BEN Namibia had hoped to reach a total of 10,000 bicycles imported through its programmes. However, with strong support from Bicycles for Humanity, more than 12,000 bicycles have been shipped to Namibia to provide mobility, income generation activities, hope and dignity to disadvantaged Namibians. ITDP and Re~Cycle also shipped bicycles to BEN Namibia in 2009.

Bicycle Empowerment Centre (BEC) achievements
BEN Namibia and its partners have now established 21 BECs throughout the country, creating jobs for 90 Namibians, half of whom are women. Project participants also benefit through skills training, and their communities benefit through affordable access to sustainable transportation.

First network conference a success
In July this year, BEN Namibia brought together participants from all its BEC projects at a three day conferenece in the northern town of Ongwediva. The conference was an opportunity for BEC projects to share experiences, challenges, and map the way forward. The Ministry of Trade and Industry's Group Purchase scheme made presentations to partipants along with local company, Cycles Wholesale. The final day of the conference involved site visits to five BEC projects in the surrounding regions. Download a copy of the report to participants here.

Team BEN Namibia
BEN Namibia congratulates team member Victor Krohne on a silver medal at the African Championships as part of the Namibian time trial team. Well done Victor!
The team is hoping to build on its youth sport development in 2010 by creating a school-based cycling programme. Stay tuned for news of funding, or help make it happen by donating online today.

Thanks to our Supporters
BEN Namibia is incredibly grateful for the support it receives from donors and partners and looks forward to continuing our work together.

A bicycle's benefit in sub-Saharan Africa
Numerous studies have demonstrated that bicycles are an appropriate technology for travelling short distances in developing countries, with the lowest operating costs of all available modes in sub-Saharan Africa.

A bicycle carries up to five times the weight and can travel four times as fast as a person walking, using much less energy.

As an example, bicycle-related activities can:

• Improve access to income generation opportunities.
• Provide sustainable transportation for low-income earners.
• Increase access to government services, including health care and education.
• Mobilise home-based care volunteers to visit more people living with HIV.
• Provide sporting opportunities for young athletes.

BEN Namibia is a section 21 association not for gain no. 21 2005 0019

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