The bicycles from MHCD and B4H, Perth, Australia, have significantly contributed to socio-economic and health development in the Territory of Uvira. Dr Luc Mulimbalimba and his organisation, MHCD (Mission in Health Care and Development), brought over 380 bicycles from Australia. These bicycles were distributed to MHCD workers, assisting them with transportation and household activities.
Doctors, nurses, midwives, teachers from both primary and secondary schools, pastors from Bethesda Ministries International, traditional midwives, and community health workers all received bicycles free of charge from MHCD.
Community health workers and traditional midwives now use these bicycles to raise awareness about primary health care, immunisation, family planning, and the distribution of birthing kits and Days for Girls kits. Previously, they walked more than 20 kilometres; now, with the bicycles, they can cover that distance more easily, reducing their physical strain and allowing them to arrive on time without excessive sweating.
These bicycles also assist mothers in fetching water from the river. Previously, they had to carry water on their heads or backs, but now they can use bicycles, which has alleviated their suffering. Many women used to carry heavy loads to sell food at markets, walking over 30 kilometres while enduring significant pain. This burden often led to chronic low back pain, headaches, migraines, gynaecological issues, and dizziness. Tragically, some pregnant women experienced miscarriages due to the strain of carrying heavy loads.
To address these challenges, we distributed bicycles to women who grow and sell bananas and other food products. Those fortunate enough to receive bicycles no longer carry heavy loads on their backs and heads; instead, they can transport their goods from the village to the market with ease. This bicycle distribution program has made a major impact on socio-economic development, improving the lives of women and helping to combat poverty, malnutrition, and hunger.
All the women who received bicycles expressed their gratitude to Dr Luc Mulimbalimba Masururu for initiating this project, as well as to B4H Perth, Australia, and the MHCD Australia Support Association for their contributions to transporting the bicycles from Australia to the DRC.
Finally, MHCD DRC would like to extend its thanks to B4H Perth for supporting this initiative, which has transformed the lives of many women in the Territory of Uvira. We also acknowledge all those who contributed to the transport of these bicycles.
We want to inform you that many women still carry heavy burdens and are in great need of these bicycles. We plan to bring another 40-foot container full of bicycles to distribute to those who have not yet received this assistance. We are appealing to B4H Perth and generous individuals to help us with the transport costs for this next shipment, so we can provide bicycles to more women in need.
