Human and Animal Powered Vehicles (HAPV’s) have been the norm in transport for thousands of years in the first world. They are still the norm in the second world – but have yet to arrive in most of the third world.Throughout most of sub-Saharan Africa, rural women spend an inordinate amount of time and energy, every day, fetching and carrying water and firewood.

In rural Africa, if something cannot be carried in person (mostly on the head), it is dragged on a travois or sledge (two poles tied behind an animal) and there is no record anywhere of a native workshop or factory, presently or historically, for the mass production of the wheel, carts, carriages or bicycles.The extent to which the absence of the wheel has impaired development in Africa can only be guessed. In terms of health, social structure and nature, the effect of its absence has been, and still is, devastating.

Photo courtesy of: Wheel & Water (http://www.wheelandwater.co.za/)

While there is little possibility of providing piped water and electricity to most rural communities in the near future, basic Human and Animal Powered Vehicles – or HAPV’s (see HAPV MODELS) – could make this task far quicker and easier. Water on tap for all would be the ideal way but will not become a reality for most in rural Africa for many years to come – and when it does, it won’t resolve the dire need for basic transportation. Human and Animal Powered Vehicles (HAPV’s) could be a feasible solution. Affordable to the masses, both in terms of purchasing (private or communal) and running costs, HAPV’s could transform life on the continent and help resolve many difficulties, including major development inertia.

Contact Details:
For more information please contact Braam van Reenen

Email: braamcpt@iafrica.com

Tel : +27 (0)21 422 1699
Cell: +27 (0)82 925 3892
Fax: +27 (0)21 424 3925