Bicycling Empowerment Network (BEN) Annual Report 2007

The mission of BEN is poverty alleviation through the promotion of the use of the bicycle in all of its forms, in order to enhance low-cost non-motorised transport, and improve health through linking exercise and mobility. In collaboration with local and international partners, BEN facilitates the transportation of bicycles from Europe, the Americas and Asia to Southern Africa; the establishment of bicycle workshop projects; distribution of these bicycles to strategically selected groups of recipients; and the planning and introduction of bicycle user paths and integrated linking networks.

ii BEN Annual Report 2007 CONTENTS

Chairman’s report 2 Managing director’s report 2 Bicycle assembly and refurbishment 4 Bicycle importation 5 Bicycle distribution 7 BEN tourism 18 Local government infrastructure 19 The BEN Club 22 Conferences and events 23 Fundraising and public awareness 23 The BEN family 25 Stakeholders and partners 27 Financial statements 28 The Velo Mondial 2006 Declaration (back cover)

‘When I see an adult on a bicycle, I do not despair for the future of the human race.’

HG Wells, 1920s

‘Adding highway lanes to deal with traffic congestion is like loosening your belt to deal with obesity.’

Louis Mumford, cultural historian and city planner

BEN Annual Report 2007 1 Chairman’s report

This annual report, from 1 September 2006 until 31 August 2007, reflects many successes – one of them being BEN’s service provider contract with the Department of Transport & Public Works (Western Cape) to improve the levels of mobility among rural people. This contract has enabled BEN to place large orders for bicycles and related equipment, to assist the Department’s Shova Kalula project (see page 11). The bicycle, our most efficient mode of transport, is the ideal vehicle for the Department’s aim. BEN would like thank our overseas NGOs, who collect used bicycles for our refurbishment and distribution; as well as everyone else who donated their bicycles to BEN for use by those who need affordable transport. Many, many thanks. To all who work at, or with, BEN, you have been fantastic and have assisted in improving the lives of many South Africans. We will continue to do so in 2008.

Louis de Waal, Pr Eng BSc (Eng) MSc (Eng)

LEFT: Louis about to start Prince Albert’s Model-T bicycle.

Managing director’s report

Since its invention in 1860, the bicycle has played a powerful role in modern society: as an invention first used for transportation, and soon thereafter for competition, it has played its role with a close-to-zero environmental impact, at the same time improving the health of those who use it. In addition, it has the power to liberate people through alleviating poverty, creating employment, uniting communities and creating more equitable societies. Can any other modern machine be described in this way? In Cry the Beloved Country, Alan Paton states, ‘For it is the dawn that has come, as it has for a thousand centuries, never failing. But when that dawn will come, of our emancipation, from the fear of bondage and the bondage of fear, why, that is a secret.’ To my mind, the birth of the bicycle is just such a dawn ­– the bicycle is one medium through which people are able to reach their true potential, and reach out to one another. Certainly, the bicycle has already extended the distances people are able to travel for trade,

2 BEN Annual Report 2007 education and livelihoods. It has allowed people to carry many times more than they could if they were walking. It has offered children (too young to use other forms of transport) a measure of independence and exercise – not to mention fun. And it has provided a mode of transport that has placed a minimum demand on the natural resources of our planet, and does not pollute nor degrade the environment. In 2007, 150 years after its dawn, the bicycle still offers the same rewards. In the age of polluting vehicles, congested roads and diminishing fossil- fuel resources, it is refreshing to know that the brilliant bicycle is still with us. But brilliant as it may be, South Africans do not use the bicycle enough. Yet in China and India, as well as the Netherlands and Denmark, for example, the bicycle is a visible presence. Although China and India are witnessing a significant increase in motorised transport, there are still 750 000 rickshaw bicycles in Delhi alone. This means 750 000 jobs, in addition to the decreased air pollution and road congestion. In Chinese cities, traders move silently and swiftly through congested cities on their shiny bicycles, delivering new appliances and food produce to local markets. In European cities, cyclists do not necessarily ride for the same reasons as those in the developing countries: they choose to ride not because it saves money, but because it is faster, more efficient, and healthier. Local governments have responded by creating hundreds of kilometres of bike lanes and facilities. , and South Africa, needs to follow this example. ‘A person on The bicycle is a remarkable invention. It a bicycle can go three or four can change lives and create sustainable times faster than the pedestrian, but systems of mobility. uses five times less energy in the process.’ Let’s take these pedal revolutions forward until we realise the dawn of ‘Eighteen bikes can be parked in the space of one our freedom of movement. car, 30 of them can move along in the space devoured by a single automobile.’

‘It takes two lanes of a given size to move 40 000 people across a bridge in one hour using modern trains; four to move them by buses; 12 to move them in their cars; and only one lane for them to Andrew Wheeldon pedal across on bicycles.’ (MSc Sports Management) Ivan Illich, Energy and Equity, 1973

BEN Annual Report 2007 3 Bicycle assembly and refurbishment

Potential Bicycle Empowerment Centre (BEC) (see page 7) managers and mechanics are trained at the BEN Tokai Academy in bike assembly, refurbishment and maintenance, as well as in basic business management. The Academy ‘syllabus’ includes: • Bicycle safety skills • Using basic tools • Puncture and wheel repair • Hubs overhaul and adjustment • Wheel truing and testing • Headset overhaul and adjustment • Braking system (road and MTB) • Bottom bracket overhaul and adjustment

During this financial year, BEN trained 20 mechanics at the Tokai Academy: • November 2006 intake Andiswa Dyaba, Philippi Charles Mfaku, Basil Zuma, Khayelitsha Lee Dillon, ‘It’s so simple Alleck Mkhanzi, Huntington (Mpumalanga) – cycling is part of my Refuse Mhlanga, Huntington (Mpumalanga) life. On a bike you get to Vincent Jacobs, Steenberg see things, you get fit, and you Olwethu Mlaza, Philippi save money.’ • April 2007 Fagodien Campher, Lavender Hill Vincent Jacobs, Kelvin Swarts, Riebeeck West Outreach, BEN Jacque Welkom, Riebeeck West

• May 2007 Patrick Mehlomakhulu, Khayelitsha

• June 2007 Mark Marang, Wellington Theodore Albertus, Wellington

• July 2007 Nathan Martin, Tafelsig, Nathan Fritz, Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain Quinton Stoffels, Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain Christo Lakay, Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain Deon Rushin, Retreat

• August 2007 Llewellyn Frans,

4 BEN Annual Report 2007 Bicycle importation

New bicycles BEN is the South African partner of the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP), a US-based NGO set up in 1985 to promote environmentally sustainable and equitable transportation policies and projects worldwide. ITDP is in the fourth year of its Access Africa Program, which is improving access to basic services while helping cities to reduce motor-vehicle related air pollution and promote less polluting and more energy efficient modes of transportation. Through the ITDP partnership, BEN has been importing high-quality yellow California bikes, designed specifically to address the basic mobility needs of lower-income communities.

In terms of its delivery contract with the Department of Transport & Public Works, Western Cape (Provincial DoT), BEN distributes new Giant bicycles to recipients such as learners, farm workers and health workers. The DoT chose the Giant because the model is available in different sizes, and has an 18-speed gearing rather than the 6-speed of the California bike. Each bike is delivered to the recipient with a pump, patchkit, lock, helmet, light, multi-tool and tyre lever.

‘Bicycling FROM LEFT: Meshack Nchupetsang of Eyethu Cycle is my life. It’s such Shop in Westlake oversees the distribution of California a wonderful way to get bikes in the Karoo; One of BEN’s ‘escorts’ on a recent healthy and to save money. I push bicycle tour of ; Rufus Norexe and a lot of people into riding, because I Naym Moltie offload Giants for bicycle tourists in know it will improve their lives.’ Manenberg. ‘Cycling changed my life. I don’t feel stress, I am free, I am independent.’

Rufus Norexe, Training, BEN

BEN Annual Report 2007 5 Used bicycles As part of a partnership between the and the City of Aachen (Germany), BEN receives an annual container of around 180 used bicycles, refurbishes them and distributes them through its various channels. In what is known as the Bicycle Recycle Project, the bikes are collected from Aachen residents one Saturday every year, prepared by a group of volunteers, and shipped by container within a few days. Uli Weber (pictured left) of the bike advocacy group ADFC, (Allgemeiner Deutscher Fahrrad Club), and Uli Bierwisch of the German Transport Association (VCD), manage the process in Aachen. ‘Bike donation’ day is announced in the press and on radio, and people from all over the area deliver their bikes for donation. Some cyclists are sad to part with their bikes, says Weber, and they pose for last photographs (and even attach photographs and their names to their used bikes, so the new owners can ‘meet’ them). Usually these are commuters who have owned their bikes for 20 years or so, and now age or ill health prevents them from cycling. ‘They’d rather do good by giving their bikes away.’ Other donors have recently purchased new bikes and would rather donate than sell their former bikes. In a town like Aachen, people ride because it’s faster and more efficient, and it’s easier to find parking, says Bierwisch. ‘They ride not because it’s cheaper, but because it brings a better quality of life.’ The partnership between Aachen and Cape Town, including participating civil society, cultural, business and educational institutions from both cities, is known as the Aachen – for Sustainable Livelihoods based on the principles of Agenda 21.

6 BEN Annual Report 2007 ‘A bicycle is not the solution to Partners commit to implement the principles and practice everything, but it is often the of global sustainability and partnerships at a local level, as simplest way of getting around.’ outlined in Agenda 21 at the United National Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) in Rio de Janeiro Uli Bierwisch, German Transport in 1992, and endorsed at the World Summit on Sustainable Association (VCD), Aachen Development in Johannesburg in 2002 through the Millennium (BEN-Agenda 21 Development Goals. partnership)

Bicycle distribution

BEN distributes bicycles to schools and learners, farm workers, health-care workers and other beneficiaries through its ITDP, Department of Transport and City of Cape Town programmes, as well as through its Bicycle Empowerment Centres (BEC), previously known as Independent Bicycle Dealers (IBDs), and other projects.

Bicycle Empowerment Centres (BECs) BEN has established eight bicycle workshops in the Western Cape, by supplying containers (as store premises) and stocking the workshop with bicycles and tools (either new or used). BEC project managers are trained by BEN in business management as well as bike maintenance. All existing BECs are now independent of BEN, but the partnership continues through ongoing training, bicycle supplies, joint events and support. Dealers meet once a month for additional support and networking.

BECs are sited in: • : Phumlani Dlongwana • Westlake: Meshack Nchupetsang • Capricorn: Jeff Mamile • Hout Bay: Themba Makau • Riebeek Kasteel: Goedgedacht Trust oversees this project • Merweville: Frikkie Bostander (pictured right) • Rocklands High School: Ishmael Cassiem • Hout Bay High School: Llewellyn Frans (opened his workshop at the end of this financial year)

Phumlani Dlongwana, BEC, Masiphumelele Phumlani is still active at his bike shop in Masiphumelele, although most of his work involves repairs, not sales. His customers prefer mountain bikes with a wide range of gears, even though they’re more expensive than his second-hand stock. Masiphumelele is in a valley, surrounded by ‘beautiful climbs

BEN Annual Report 2007 7 enjoyed by riders who are looking for fitness, not transportation!’ To raise awareness about cycle transport, and bring in extra income, Phumlani rents his bikes to one of BEN’s tourism projects. Phumlani also works as a ‘worm farmer’ for an innovative project in Noordhoek called FullCycle. He collects food waste from three local restaurants on his highly visible California bike and trailer, and oversees the production of earthworm compost.

Goedgedacht Community Cycle Project, Riebeek Kasteel Goedgedacht Trust, managed by Peter Templeton, oversees the BEC in Esterhof, a clinic outside Riebeek Kasteel. Shannon Pieterson – the only woman BEC project manager - is a new recruit and is exceptionally keen to make the project work, says Peter. ‘We’ve struggled to find the right people to run the project,’ says Peter, ‘and gave up on the men! The project needs some time to settle down and get going, as Riebeek Kasteel is an area of seasonal workers without that much stability.’ The bike workshop maintains and services the California bikes used by health-care workers in the area (who help people adhere to their TB medication), and sells second-hand and new bikes, pumps, helmets and other important accessories. Unlike in the urban areas, where cyclists fear heavy traffic and driver attitudes, rural cyclists have to contend with farm dogs and bumpy roads, says Peter. But far from giving up, the Goedgedacht Trust is working hard to encourage ‘Bikes more schools to get involved in cycling, and is planning to don’t only offer expand the project to nearby Riebeek West. access to economic opportunities – they also teach you to persevere, to push on in Meshack Nchupetsang, Eyethu Cycle Shop, whatever path you have chosen, and BEC, Westlake to take up the challenge of getting to Since the beginning of his business in 2002, Meshack the top.’ has sold 305 bikes – 21 of those in 2007 – and he suspects that his target market is fairly saturated at this Meshack Nchupetsang, BEN stage. BEC, Westlake Hence his focus on bike repairs – sometimes up to 15 a day – and sourcing bike repair and ride-support contracts. He has also managed to put Eyethu Cycle Shop on the cycling map by being involved in the following events during 2007:

• Cape Argus Cycle Tour (repairing of bikes during the race) • Cape Times Big Walk (bicycle marshall for the athletes) • Appeared on the Saturday Pedal Talk sports show on SABC2 (2007) with Lance Armstrong.

8 BEN Annual Report 2007 ‘I love the idea Companies and organisations such as the of being able to make South African Post Office, Africa Bespoke, a difference in the lives of the ADT, Mountain Men Security, Armageddon disadvantaged people all over the Western Security and Silvertree Security use Cape. I have always had a dream to help Meshak’s bikes, too. people, and being able to work with BEN is a dream came true. Now through this work I am able ‘I have received help from BEN first to touch the lives of so may kids, from our backyards of all for giving me this opportunity until Eden and further. to live my dream, Dragon Sports for ‘To see their faces light up on receiving a bike is the spares and travel allowances to places greatest gift I could ever wish for. To think such a of opportunity, as well as Cyclelab for small thing can get me such a great reward!’ shop racks and accessories and lastly Rabie Beverley Roode, Programme Developers for the publications they have run officer, BEN about my shop.

Jeff Mamile, BEC, Capricorn (Vrygrond) Jeff’s bike shop in Capricorn is going well, sometimes with him fixing up to 12 bikes in one day! His stock of second-hand bikes sells quickly – Capricorn is a reasonably flat area, and commuters don’t seem to need as many gears as they do in other areas (and most of his market finds new bikes a little too expensive).

Themba Makau, BEC, Hout Bay (IZ) Themba spends most of his time fixing bikes at his bike workshop, and persuading people to take up bike commuting instead of paying for public transport every day. ‘Bikes are going more quickly when there’s a lot of traffic, and when you compare them to walking, you can do a whole ‘What lot of things at once!’ do I love about When he’s not in his workshop, Themba trains on his using a bicycle instead of bike for at least two hours a day. transport? Transport costs are going up. With a bicycle, you pay Ishmael Cassiem, BEC, Rocklands High School for it once, and then you’re fine. And The children and learners in Ishmael’s community if you’re not fine, bring your bike to are particularly knowledgeable about climate change, me and I’ll make it fine again!’ and how cycling can make a difference – which is why ‘they know well the value of bicycles, and they share this Themba Makau, BEN BEC, information with others,’ he says. Hout Bay

BEN Annual Report 2007 9 Nedbank Bike to School programme The Bike to School programme was initiated in 2006 with sponsorship from Nedbank, and is designed to promote cycling as a mode of transport, provide learners with access to education, and encourage them to attend school regularly. During this financial year Nedbank sponsored 100 bicycles, helmets and Nedbank cycling kit to 100 learners from previously disadvantaged areas. BEN then uses cycling events such as the Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Cycle Tour to introduce the learners to the world of bicycle racing. As a result, a number of cyclists have shown an interest in competitive cycling, while others have discovered an easy and efficient way to travel to school. After the cycle tour, different school groups congregate at at the Nedbank hospitality tent where they receive a lunch pack and hospitality from Nedbank for a job well done. ‘The learners really enjoyed the race in 2007 and they are very proud of the bikes and clothing they received from Nedbank,’ says Mr Bunyonyo of Luhlaza High School in Khayelitsha. ‘They are excited to ride their bikes everyday.’ ‘I could not wait to use my bike to school and tell the other learners about the race,’ said Malothe Anele of Matthew Goniwe High School in Khayelitsha.

Why non-motorised transport is good for everyone in Cape Town: Motorised vehicles contribute to half of all air pollution ­Motor vehicles are one of the main causes of climate change Bicycles are faster in rush-hour traffic Cycling and walking are good for your health Cycling and walking are cheaper than driving or taking public transport Bicycles and feet don’t need timetables Bicycles and pedestrians don’t need big, expensive roads that take up precious urban space Almost anyone and everyone can afford to walk or cycle Cycling and walking are more sociable and helps to integrate communities

10 BEN Annual Report 2007 The following five schools participated in the 2007 Nedbank Schools Programme. Each school received 10 bicycles, as well as training in basic bike maintenance, helmet adjustments and road safely. • Heathfield High (Heathfield) • Steenberg High (Steenberg) (pictured below) • Woodlands High (Mitchell’s Plein) • Cedar High (Mitchell’s Plein) • Crystal High (Hanover Park)

Shova Kalula/NMT project Department of Transport and Public Works Shova Kalula (‘pedal easy’) is a national government sponsored initiative that provides bicycles at a lower cost to rural and peri-urban beneficiaries. The initiative aims to maximise the use of non-motorised transport to enable communities to access social and economic opportunities at a cheaper cost, and to promote cycling as a low-cost mobility solution to low-income households, targeting scholars, rural women and farm-workers. BEN has a service provider contract with the Western Cape Department of Transport & Public Works to distribute bicycles in terms of this project.

RIGHT: BEN handed over 30 bikes to children in Ottery in March 2007, assisted by the organisation Konek (‘Connecting the Unconnected’).

BEN Annual Report 2007 11 In Bogota, air pollution went down and fuel consumption dropped by 10.3% by reducing car usage. Chicago aims to have 5% of all trips shorter than 8km to be taken by bicycle by 2015.

In Munster, Germany, the bicycle accounts for 30% of all journeys.

TOP: Naym Moltie, BEN, with Les Duimpies (HOD, Education) and Kurt Hendricks (DoT, WC), at the handover of 30 bicycles to learners at George Fredericks Primary School, Merweville.

CENTRE AND BELOW: The launch of the bicycle project in Karatara, April 2007. 120 bikes were distributed between Eden Campus and Karatara Primary School. The programme included a fun ride, and talks about safety and becoming a pro-cyclist.

12 BEN Annual Report 2007 Bikes distributed through the Shova Kalula programme School Number of bikes Merweville (George Fredericks Primary School 30 Karatara (Eden Campus) 60 Karatara Primary 60 Konek Ottery 30 Cycle for Life (Steenberg, Fairmount & High) 45 Hoerskool Citrusdal 60 Prince Albert Hoerskool Zwartberg 60 Land Care Bush Camp 30 Beaufort West 10

Louis de Waal has been counting bicycle movements at the intersection of Prince George’s Dr () and Military Rd for several years to document the influence of the BEN workshop in Vrygrond. ‘The refurbished Dutch and German bikes are now pouring through the intersection in the morning peak,’ says Louis. Feb 2005: 119 bikes (when workshop was established in Vrygrond) Oct 2005: 154 bikes +29.4% increase Sept 2006: 183 bikes +18.8% Mar 2007: 178 bikes – 2.7% decrease (due to rain) Oct 2007: 201 bikes +12.9% The overall increase for the 2.5 years has been 68.9%.

Other bike donations Co-operation Ireland gives 30 bikes to Netreg community, Cape Town In September 2006, 47 Irish men and women from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland cycled the 700km from Knysna to Cape Town, as part of a process of building better relations between their two countries. And at the end of their journey, they donated their bicycles to the Netreg community, Cape Town. The group were part of Co-operation Ireland, a non-political organisation dedicated to promoting better relations between people of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Its aim is to provide opportunities for groups from both sides of the border to meet, so they can learn about diverse cultural backgrounds and help create a society based on tolerance and acceptance of cultural difference. BEN arranged a bike donation event together with the Irish Cape Town-based Niall Mellon Township Initiative (NMTI). The NMTI seeks to improve the housing of people who live in townships, and Irish volunteers have thus far built 191 brick houses in Netreg.

BEN Annual Report 2007 13 The bicycles were handed over to families in the community through a lucky draw process.

Tour d’Afrique donates 30 bikes to BEN In May 2007, Executive , , and Andrew Wheeldon welcomed the 50 Tour d’Afrique finishers. The Tour d’Afrique is a five-month, 12 000km journey bicycle tour from Cairo to Cape Town. In addition to being ‘the world’s longest and most grueling bicycle event,’ the Tour d’Afrique aims to raise consciousness about bicycles as an alternative means of transport, and to do some good while having fun by donating bicycles along the way and supporting bicycle advocacy.

ABOVE: Welcome to Cape Town: Executive Mayor of Cape Town Helen Zille (centre left) welcomes Tour d’Afrique winners Adrie Frijters (left) and Eva Nijssen (right) and TDA organiser Henry Gold (centre right).

BEN bikes make a difference ABOVE RIGHT: Ueli Burkhalter and Heiner Wiemer (not pictured) donated this California bike to Nqgoba Nonkosinathi (Nozie), a home-based care worker in Redhill, Cape Town. The bicycle has helped her visit more patients, more often.

RIGHT: In collaboration with Checkers, BEN rehabilitated a number of small children’s bicycles and distributed them to five local creches.

‘For BELOW: BEN donated a some people a bicycle is a means California bike to health of transport, for others it is worker Veronica Nichols a way to keep out of trouble, from Saldanha Health away from the drug and gang Care. problems that infest most of our neighbourhoods.’

Beverly Roode

14 BEN Annual Report 2007 Karoo farmers save to get bikes and gain mobility Contributed by: Bradley Schroeder, ITDP Workers in Calitzdorp are discovering a newfound sense of self-worth and independence. In partnership with the Great Western Cape Bicycle Ride, BEN and the ITDP developed a savings program that makes it possible for farm workers in South Africa to set aside a portion of their earnings towards the purchase of a new subsidised bicycle. In November, 310 farmers in Calitzdorp who participated in the savings plan received California Bikes, helmets, and repair kits subsidised by Axiz Ltd, an information technology company based in South Africa. For the Calitzdorp farm workers, the California Bikes are the first items that they have ‘When I purchased with their own savings, giving them a used to walk past newfound sense of ownership, self-worth and a child in the street who independence. looked as though he was not well ‘It makes me feel good about myself and cared for, I promised myself that one I take good care of [the bike],’ said one of the day I would make a contribution. participants. ‘I get to work on time, and I can At BEN, and using bicycles, I am now able even sleep a bit later,’ said another. to make this contribution – helping to Since the Calitzdorp event in November, alleviate poverty and improve the quality hundreds of additional requests for bicycles have of learners’ lives.’ been received from other farm workers who have taken note of the improved access Trevor Knowlden, Outreach, to markets, healthcare and education BEN that the bicycles provide.

BEN Annual Report 2007 15 Bikes distributed through all BEN projects

NEW SCHOOLS PGWC CITY/ ITDP BECs CORPORATE SALES DONATIONS HEALTH OTHER TOTAL BICYCLE SCHOOLS LA21 CARE RECIPIENTS SEPT 2006 0 OCT 8 8 NOV 14 14 20 1 21 4 2 30 4 110 DEC 1 4 5 JAN 2007 100 25 5 130 FEB 100 3 103 MAR 265 14 2 281 APR 0 MAY 10 5 15 JUN 0 JUL 0 AUG 150 4 154 TOTAL 114 415 14 34 2 166 25 2 30 4 806

USED BICYCLES BECS SCHOOLS LA21 ACADEMY TOTAL RECIPIENTS SALE SEPT 2006 0 OCT 0 NOV 0 DEC 1 1 JAN 2007 0 FEB 9 34 7 50 MAR 0 APR 158 158 MAY 25 25 JUN 0 JUL 30 30 AUG 40 40 TOTAL 223 9 34 38 304 560 used bicycles were imported during this financial year: 180 from Aachen Germany (Dec 2006) and 380 from the Netherlands (April 2007).

16 BEN Annual Report 2007 BIKE DISTRIBUTION 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 Total Qty % Qty % Qty % Qty % Qty % Qty % NEW ( CALIFORNIA & 806 73% 259 28% 440 57% 446 62% 0 1951 53% GIANT) USED 304 27% 657 72% 326 43% 268 38% 203 100% 1758 47%

TOTAL 1110 100% 916 100% 766 100% 714 100% 203 100% 3709 100%

% Increase over previous 21% 20% 7% 252% year Note the shift between 2006 and 2007 from used bikes to new bikes

New York is creating a special lane, modelled on those used in European cities such as Copenhagen, Denmark, that will separate bicyclists from motorists. The Ninth Avenue bike lane in Manhattan is being built between a sidewalk and a lane for parked cars.

San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, whose city is considered one of the friendliest to cyclists by the League of American Bicyclists, New York wants at least 10% of all trips Mayor Michael in the city within three years Bloomberg wants to to be made by bicycle. add 200 miles (321 km) of bike lanes by 2010 to serve a growing population.

BEN Annual Report 2007 17 A bicycle is an investment that has a big return. In Uganda, women were able to increase their income by 25% and ‘Riding gain two hours per day a bike keeps thanks to bicycles. you alert, able to focus. It also keeps you from getting old!’

Fagodien Campher, BEN

bEN Tourism In November 2006, BEN won an award for Responsible Tourism in the category Best for Innovation / Technology (organised by First Choice Responsible Tourism, www. responsibletravel.com), for a business that practises innovation or entrepreneurship in responsible tourism, or that uses technology in an environmentally friendly way. BEN offers township tours with a difference. Rather than touring in an air-conditioned bus, tourists travel by bike increasing their interaction with the local community. Since the award, the tours received increased media coverage, and this year more than 200 tourists participated in a tour of Masiphumelele. The BEN Bicycle Township Tour (pictured right) has been incorporated into the itinerary of a USA Bicycle Tourism Company that plans to bring 20 trips to South Africa a year. The tours run for 10 days from Cape Town to Addo National Park. BEN Bicycle Tourism is registered with Cape Town Tourism and part of the Cape Care Route. The township tour has also in the process of getting Fair Trade and Tourism Accreditation.

18 BEN Annual Report 2007 Local government infrastructure

Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) Forum The NMT Forum has met monthly since March 2007, and is well attended by representatives from the City of Cape Town, the Cape Town Partnership, the Provincial Government of the Western Cape (PGWC), transport planning practitioners, consultants and engineers (such as Pendulum Consulting, ARUP, Arcus Gibb, and Kantey & Templar) and other interested and affected parties. Chaired by Andrew Wheeldon of BEN, the NMT Forum was founded to continue the work undertaken by the Velo Mondial 2006 NMT Infrastructure Subcommittee in the months ahead of the Velo Mondial Conference in June 2006. It aims to: • coordinate and track the various NMT projects underway in the City of Cape Town • focus on the needs for NMT surrounding the FIFA 2010 World Cup Stadium in Green Point and act as a watchdog to ensure that NMT is sufficiently addressed on the Agenda • concentrate on advocacy work to promote cycling in all its forms and to facilitate projects in partnership with the various stakeholders.

The NMT Forum has a vision of Cape Town becoming a world class Cycling Inclusive City that comes about from the collective efforts of the members of the NMT Forum in conjunction with the work undertaken by the City of Cape Town, the Cape Town Partnership and the PGWC.

Main achievements of the Forum in 2007 include: • Providing a forum for dialogue among NMT stakeholders • Providing a platform for the review of planning for infrastructure • Facilitating dialogue between the City of Cape Town and NMT advocacy groups • Facilitating discussion between the City and the Province on NMT • Co-ordinating events management planning for special events • Raising awareness of the needs of vulnerable modes of travel • Providing an interface between cycling clubs and the transportation planners. • Facilitating dialogue among consultants that are involved in NMT planning and design • Ensuring continuity of planning efforts.

RIGHT: CineSuite is a brand-new home delivery DVD service that focuses on classic and cult movies. All deliveries are made by people on bikes, who were trained and sourced by BEN. On their distinctive yellow California bikes, the cyclists range across the Southern Suburbs and as far as Green Point and .

BEN Annual Report 2007 19 The Bicycle Partnership Programme Bicycle Partnership Programme puts Cape Town on the path to sustainable transport The City of Cape Town and the Netherlands-based Interface for Cycling Expertise (I-ce) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will place bicycle transport firmly on the urban landscape and in the minds – and sight – of all commuters. BEN is the South African partner of I-ce. The two-year Bicycle Partnership Programme (BPP), as the project is known, will work on making urban development and transport policies cycling-inclusive, and therefore better able to addressing socio-economic, spatial and environmental and development issues. Training and coaching of city officials will focus on reviewing the City’s Bicycle Master Plan; capacity building on the planning and design of cycling facilities; and using the opportunities of the investments for the World Cup 2010 for the implementation of cycling facilities. The City already has a Non Motorised Transport (NMT) Strategy, which includes a Bicycle Master Plan as well a Pedestrian Safety Implementation Plan. There are currently more than 120km of established cycle lanes within the Cape Town. The Bicycle Partnership Programme aims to support 30 to 50 cities in Africa, Asia and Latin America. I-ce has selected South Africa as a focus country for the Programme, along with India, Brazil and the region Eastern Africa.

The City of Cape Town’s responsibilities, in this partnership, will be: • the organisation of – and logistics for – meetings and workshops in Cape Town with the international experts which will take place once or twice per year • local staffing of the Non Motorised Transport section, within the Transport Department within City of Cape Town • cross-sector coordination and relevant stakeholder involvement • exchange of relevant data for the assessment of the impact of cycling facilities • the exchange of relevant data to learn from and about the relevant governance structures • tp submit reports on a half yearly basis on the progress of policies, plans and implementation • to ensure that the relevant political structures of the City Cape Town are informed on the progress of this programme.

ABOVE: The City of Cape Town signs the MOU with I-ce: Namhla Jaxa (I-ce/BPP), Andrew Wheeldon, Roelof Wittink (I-ce), Maddie Mazaza (City of Cape Town director: transport), and Louis de Waal.

20 BEN Annual Report 2007 The responsibilities of I-ce in this partnership will be the availability of international expertise (including the funding thereof) for: • professional coaching of city officials and providing peer-to-peer reviewing of plans and designs • interactive training in workshops on relevant issues, including issues related to the proper involvement of stakeholders and such • web-based learning by providing access to appropriate sources with peer-to-peer dialogue and distant tutoring • assistance in the drafting of context-specific national or regional guidelines and manuals • the engagement of related Bicycle Partnership Programme stakeholder networks such as universities, bicycle industry, and civil society organisations • ensuring that the relevant political champions and the staff of Dutch local and regional authorities are informed on the progress of this programme • the organisation and funding of international meetings with other partners of the Bicycle Partnership Programme • fundraising activities in the Netherlands for the support of civil society organisations activities within the framework of this programme.

‘I am horrified that Cape Town and Metrorail has not kept up with international trends of allowing bicycles on their trains! I don’t expect a free train ride for a bike and am more than happy to pay extra on my ticket, and even to be restricted to certain trains at certain times, but come on guys, get with the times of congestion and conservation.’ ‘To the Department of Roads and Transport, you have made special Ray Chaplin, NMT advocate and BEN “taxi” lanes in several areas. Where fundraiser are the bicycle lanes? There seem to only be a few near certain schools. Why are there not special pavements all over our beautiful city? Seeing the Atlantic seaboard at 15km/h is certainly a very special experience.’

Ray Chaplin

BEN Annual Report 2007 21 The BEN Club

The BEN Club was founded in late 2006 in order to promote cycling in all its forms. The Club is registered with Cycling SA, and has 30 members.

Its goals are to: • be foremost a social club providing for cyclists in greater Cape Town • promote cycling as a means of transport, recreational activity and sport • arrange and organise social cycle tours, bike rides and outings • advocate for bike paths and bike facilities on behalf of and together with BEN members • provide advice to members on training, safety, health and technical matters relating to cycling where possible; and to link all members with BEN bike projects (BECs) in their communities.

The BEN Capricorn Club Every weekend and many late afternoons, the sight of the BEN Capricorn cycling club is bound to brighten the day of drivers stuck in South Peninsula traffic. You can’t miss them – young guys in bright yellow BEN kit, sometimes on bikes they have yet to grow into, winding up , or speeding toward Simons Town and . ‘They don’t have any problem with the distances – they love it, even if they’re hanging onto a bike too big for them,’ says Jeff Mamile of ‘his boys’. He founded the club with only two young guys, and today anything between 10 and 20 boys, from the age of 12, meet up on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 4.30pm, and again on Saturday and Sunday mornings, to ride. ‘They’re like brothers now,’ says Jeff. ‘Instead of hanging out on the streets, they gather in my shop after school, and get away from their problems.’ ‘Cycling will always be in my blood,’ says Jeff, who started riding when he worked in Western Areas gold mine in Gauteng. ‘And now it’s in theirs.’ He’s entered the team into the “Argus” next year, after their successful ride in 2007 (every one of them finished in less than four hours). Although Jeff is certain that with all this training he could beat his best time of 3.32 hours, he’s chosen to set up a bike repair stall near Cape Point on the day of the event (his 2007 stall was a great success.)

22 BEN Annual Report 2007 Paris Velib bike rental Conferences scheme is attracting serious attention. Cities as International NMT and Intermediate Means diverse as Chicago, Moscow and of Transport Conference and Exhibition Sydney have all shown interest. Held at Gallagher Estate from 21 to 23 February 2006 6 million rides have been recorded in 3 months, soon there will be and hosted by the national Department of Transport, 20 000 rental bikes available this conference considered ways in which to expand the with the nearest station boundaries of non-motorised and intermediate means of just 300m away. transport for sustainable livelihoods.

BEN partners and directors presented the following papers: • Louis de Waal: Effective integrated planning for bicycles, cars and people • Drs Roelof Wittink (Interface for Cycling Expertise): International overview of NMT promotion • Andrew Wheeldon: NGO case study • Bradley Schroeder (Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP): Panel discussion on Entrenching the concept of NMT to transform cities and ensure sustainability • Drs Roelof Wittink: Plenary Address: The Bicycle Partnership Programme • Drs Roelof Wittink: The cycling strategy of the Netherlands

Velo-city Conference 2007: Munich Velo-city is an international forum that convenes every two years to discuss strategies to promote bicycle transport. In 2007 the conference theme was ‘From Vision to Reality’. Andrew Wheeldon presented a paper entitled ‘The role and importance of partnerships in the development of a successful bicycling city’. The paper focused on the first five years of BEN programmes in Cape Town, and outlined the way in which partnerships between government, civil society, industry and community-based organisations facilitated this progress. Louis de Waal and Andrew Wheeldon also chaired two sessions each.

Fundraising and public awareness

‘TheLifeCycle’ proves that bicycle commuting is possible in South Africa In support of the Bicycling Empowerment Network, Ray Chaplin set out for a 2 400km cycle across South Africa. 41-days later he reached his destination, having experienced everything South African weather can throw at one... and a lot of passes! Ray left home on Friday 4 May with the goal of cycling to Pretoria to promote non-motorised and environmentally sustainable transportation via the bicycle. ‘While the going was tough, especially with the additional weight of up to 50kg in the trailer,

BEN Annual Report 2007 23 knowing that my journey was making a difference and inspiring others was a great boost to help get over the passes and cover the great distances. In Barrydale, a group of teenagers came out on their bikes to cycle the last 5km and welcome me into town. After five hours of climbing the Op de Tradouw pass, it gave me such energy we even raced each other into town.’ The trip, in conjunction with BEN, the Department of Transport and the South African National Roads Agency, allowed Ray to interact first-hand with communities along his route and assist in setting up sustainable employment opportunities along his way. ‘During my LifeCycle journey, I squashed most reasons why one can’t commute by bicycle: I have a heavy load: with a trailer and the right gears, I climbed enormous mountain passes and covered great distances; It’s cold and wet: wrap yourself in good fleece and waterproofs and you’ll survive; I’ll get hot and sweaty: yes, cycling is a form of exercise too, but get your company to install a shower; It’s not safe with cars on the road: I cycled several national roads, including the , and survived; There’s nowhere to leave my bike: take it into the office, restaurant, shopping centre, etc, and they will quickly find a safe place for you. ‘It has been just over a year since my return from overseas, and since then I have not driven a car once,’ says Ray. ‘My personal transportation has been primarily on foot and by bicycle, sometimes covering as much as 500km in a week.’

BELOW: Louis de Waal celebrated his 70th birthday this ‘I recently year by asking for donations to BEN instead of gifts - and cycled up Ou Kaapse rewarded friends with this revolutionary birthday cake! Weg to braai with some friends, but could not find a place to leave my bike at Silvermine Dam. To add to that, I was treated like a mountain biker who had strayed off the designated path. That’s a pretty difficult mistake to have made, considering I was on a tar road and had a trailer behind my bicycle with my meat, charcoal and other supplies.’

Ray Chaplin

24 BEN Annual Report 2007 The BEN family

BEN Patrons David Kramer (South African musician) Phil Liggett (International cycle race commentator) Hans van Vliet (Shimano Europe)

BEN Board of Directors (September 2006 to August 2007) Louis de Waal (Chairman) Andrew Wheeldon (Managing director) Sally Petersen (Tourism director) Integration Bertie Phillips (Infrastructure Planning Portfolio) of the bicycle Ken Sturgeon (Cape Argus Cycle Tour Liaison) improves traffic safety. Yvonne Tripod (Financial manager) In Germany, the number of cyclists increased by 30% Bradley Schroeder (ITDP California Bicycle Director) between 1975 and 1998, Jason Lind; Meshack Mochele; Meshack Nchupetsang accompanied by a 66% Gilbert Thomas; Basil Heald; Mike Bruton; Mark Pinder reduction of the number of cycling fatalities. BEN Staff (November 2006-August 2007) Louis de Waal (Chairman) Andrew Wheeldon (Managing director) Yvonne Tripod (Financial manager) Beverley Roode (Program officer) Zandiswa Cacambile (Office assistant) Trevor Knowlden (Academy: outreach) Naym Moltie (Academy: administration) Janine Johnson (Office assistant) Rufus Norexe (Academy: workshop officer)

Bicycle Empowerment Centre (BEC) project team Masiphumelele: Phumlani Dlongwana Westlake: Meshack Nchupetsang Capricorn: Jeff Mamile Hout Bay/ : Themba Makau Riebeek Kasteel: Peter Templeton Merweville: Frikkie Bostander Mitchell’s Plain/ Rocklands High School: Ishmael Cassiem Hout Bay High School: Llewellyn Frans ABOVE: The Community Cycles BEC is based at a clinic outside Riebeek Kasteel, Western Cape.

BEN Annual Report 2007 25 BEN interns (September 2006 to August 2007) Bart Hesen, Fontys University, Netherlands, Communication Wieke Netten, Fontys, Communication Thijs Hikspoors, Fontys, Communication Esther Hautmann, ASA-Program, Germany, Business Plan Kerstin Dreher, ASA GER, Business Plan Sophie Voigtlander, Leipzig, Social case study Yasmin Beuttgen, ASA GER, Planning Marjolein Krol, Fontys Schools Gareth Cork, UCT, Social Work Abby Hillcove, UCT, Social Work Roel de Koning, Fontys, Communication Jaap van der Horst, Fontys, Communication Maartje Vugts, Fontys, Communication ‘My bicycle makes me feel wealthy.’

Ishmael Cassiem, BEN BEC, Rocklands High School

‘I like cycling because it’s cheap. And it helps that I love cycling as well! I’m not going to spend my money on transport if I can help it!’

Naym Moltie, Stock and schools, BEN

26 BEN Annual Report 2007 StakeholderS AND PARTNERS

Ben would like to thank the following organisations, partners and individuals for their contributions and commitment.

AXIZ Consulting / Qhubeka Program Baz Bus Brait South Africa Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust Cape Town Partnership City of Cape Town and Local Agenda 21 Community Chest Craig Northam Dragon Sports Probike Cape Cycle Systems Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) Interface for Cycling Expertise (I-ce) Department of Transport and Public Works, Western Cape Jack van Lieshout (NL) Tour d’Afrique P Liddard Ray Chaplin The Sports Trust Nedbank Venus Africa Security Coin Security City of Cape Town Department of Community Safety Hex River Citrus Shopping Centre Rachel Becker (USA) Co-operation Ireland Simon Alston

Craig Northam (above) and Simon Alston, two South Africans, cycled from Cairo to Cape Town to raise money for BEN. It took them 165 days (539 hours of riding time!) at an average of 22.3km an hour over 12 034km. They raised more than 5 000 pounds sterling.

BEN Annual Report 2007 27 Bicycling Empowerment Network Annual Financial Statements for the year ended 31 August 2007

A complete presentation of the financial statements is available on request.

Association incorporated under Section 21 Reg. No. 2000/030873/08 NPO 53-738

AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Balance sheet as at 31 August 2007

2007 2006 R R ASSETS

Equipment 5,388 10,306

Current Assets 895,280 463,407

Inventory 449,568 363,523 Trade and other receivables 429,473 55,271 Cash 16,239 44,613

TOTAL ASSETS 900,6681 473,7131

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES

Capital and reserves Retained Income 74,432 7,547

Current Liabilities 826,236 466,166

Trade and other payables 722,596 440,505 Loans 61,722 15,485 Sponsorship received in advance 41,918 10,176

TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 900,6681 473,7131

28 BEN Annual Report 2007 Income statement for the year ended 31 August 2007

2007 2006 R R

Sales 778,011 232,443 New Bicycles 745,877 188,365 Used Bicycles 13,676 11,557 Other Sales 18,458 32,521

Cost of Sales 703,859 222,458

Gross Profit 74,152 9,985

Other Income 872,151 772,482 Partnership Contribution 280,255 396,338 Project Income 281,074 280,457 Donations 293,033 76,871 Discount Received 3,112 4,479 Intererst Received 779 5,347 Other 13,898 8,990

Total Income 946,303 782,467

Less Expenditure 879,418 841,047

Net Profit / (Loss) for the year R 66,8851 R -58,5801

BEN Annual Report 2007 29 VELO MONDIAL CAPE TOWN 2006 CONFERENCE DECLARATION TOWARDS PROSPERITY

At the third Velo Mondial conference, held in Cape Town in March 2006, 350 delegates from 41 countries noted that: • Safe cycling is a basic human right, • And cycling plays a critical role in solving global challenges such as economic inequality; obesity and other direct results of physical inactivity; energy consumption; air quality; and road and social safety.

Cape Town and the Western Cape have committed themselves to a course of action to address Non- Motorised Transport (NMT) planning, and have achieved notable success in implementing the bicycle master plan and establishing an NMT Council. These communities are to be congratulated for facing these challenges by promoting NMT initiatives.

The delegates demand that the best practice that already exists must be harnessed at a now greater speed and urgency to achieve a better future by: • Reclaiming public space to improve quality of life • Improving the integration of cycling with other sectors such as: health, public transport, environment, and economic generation • Facilitating greater access to high-quality technical expertise on cycling • Ensuring political commitment for an increased role for NMT in economic and community development • Planning to retain and encourage the small scale and mixed function of community districts and make these as accessible as possible to the bicycle • Building the capacity of community-based organisations and supporting NGOs in order to promote NMT • Engaging the business community in providing healthy workplaces • Urging Velo Mondial to develop strategies and work with all agencies to ensure that cycling is promoted in international programs, and to report back to the next Velo Mondial conference. Finally, the conference calls on all communities to set a ceiling target for private motorised transport usage by investing in NMT.

Bicycling Empowerment Network www.benbikes.og.za • PO Box 31561, Tokai, 7966, Cape Town, South Africa • 199 Main Rd Tokai Cape 7945 South Africa • Tel 021-7133634 • Fax 021-7127492 • Email [email protected]