The First Lady of Kenya, Mama Rachel Ruto, on Friday received a generous donation of 283 bicycles from the Republic of Korea to support Mama Doing Good. The handover ceremony took place at State House and was graced by the presence of Ambassador Yeo Sung Jun and his spouse Ms. Hoeseung Hwang.
Expressing her gratitude, Mama Rachel Ruto conveyed her heartfelt appreciation to the Republic of Korea for their steadfast commitment to promoting sustainable transportation and empowering individuals through the donation of bicycles.
“Our growing partnership with the Republic of Korea has played an important role in promoting sustainable transport and empowering people through bicycles. We would like to thank the Republic of Korea for their support,” said Mama Rachel Ruto
The donation comprises 100 commuter bicycles, 155 electric bicycles, and 28 mountain and road bicycles, all of which will contribute to the advancement of non-motorized transportation in Kenya.
During her address, Mama Rachel Ruto emphasized the pressing global climate goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. She highlighted the significant contribution of road transport, which accounts for up to 10% of global carbon emissions. In light of this, she underscored the importance of cycling as a vital pathway to a safe and sustainable future for all.
Cycling is renowned for being a zero-emission mode of transportation, offering a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to vehicles reliant on fossil fuels.
The First Lady also emphasized the wider impact of the donation, stating that it contributes to the establishment of a healthier and more environmentally conscious society. The bicycles will be distributed among women and men across Kenya, empowering them to become part of a global community of cyclists.
Furthermore, Mama Rachel Ruto stressed the significance of advocating for safe and inclusive cycling infrastructure to ensure that cycling becomes a viable option for people of all ages, genders, abilities, and income levels. She acknowledged the crucial role played by the “Share the Road” campaign in promoting safe and sustainable means of transportation.
Ambassador Yeo Sung Jun commended the occasion as a milestone in the shared commitment to empowering women, promoting sustainable transport, and fostering a greener future.
“As the Korean Ambassador to Kenya, I am deeply proud to be part of this momentous occasion. It is a testament to the strong bond between our two nations and our unwavering dedication to supporting initiatives that promote gender equality. The donation of around 300 bicycles, worth approximately 200,000 US dollars, symbolises our belief in the power of sustainable mobility,” said Ambassador Yeo Sung Jun.
In conclusion, Mama Rachel Ruto expressed her profound appreciation for the support and partnership of the Republic of Korea. She commended their impactful contributions, which will forever hold a special place in the hearts of the Kenyan people. This generous donation paves the way for a greener and more sustainable future in Kenya.
