sarahobamabike is our first bicycle delivery project! After traveling to Kenya in February 2010 to do market research and to visit the community, we have decided to bring in 150 bicycles to Kisumu in the Western Province. There will be two types of bicycles; the Long Bike and a Mountain Bike. Kisumu is Kenya’s third largest city with a population of roughly 360,000 people. This flourishing city is a central hub for the fishing industry, trading sugar cane and tea, and is growing very quickly. When it comes to bicycles, this area is know for boda-bodas, a form of bicycle taxis. In 2004, it was estimated that more than 200,000 men work as bicycle taxis in Uganda and Western Kenya, with the demand for bicycles still rising. Kenyans are very innovative about how to make the most use out of their bicycles and local businesses have specialized in building very strong carriers or seats for passenger.
Distribution. We are currently in the process of developing a franchise model that could potentially form the basis of our distribution channels. It would work very much like the car industry, or fast food networks. It allows for quick expansion and to create many beneficial partnerships.
Microfinance. Partnerships with Microfinance institutions are invaluable for many operations in the developing world. We are still in the process of finding adding partners so that locals have access to the bicycles that we will offer.
Measurement of Success. There several pieces of success to this trial project. One is selling the entire limited production to satisfied customers. Another aspect is providing jobs to members of a local community. A social benefit to conducting this kind of test is that we can specifically address the demand of one local community and to supply them accordingly. We want to have the highest possible impact and want to benefit the local economy in many different ways. Fundamentally, we want to learn about what people really need, if they like our products, how we can become more efficient, and achieve our goals of making a grassroots impact.
The Name. During our latest visit in Kisumu, we had the pleasure of meeting Sarah Obama at her home just north of Kisumu. As community leader, she has demonstrated exceptional service through various projects. We want to dedicate the first bicycles to the Obama family for all their dedication to the Kenyan community.
Location. Kisumu, in the Western Province of Kenya. We are excited about our first location, working closely with the Boulder-Kisumu Sister Cities Committee and other local organizations.
