Business
Zambikes: Bamboo bicycles made in Zambia
In Zambia, bicycles are grown from the ground.
Making the most of the southern African country’s bamboo plants, two Zambians and two Americans have set up a company that is crafting high-end, lightweight bicycles with frames made out of the locally-grown wooden weed.
Dubbed Zambikes, the company is putting its custom-built Zambian bikes on roads around the world, offering pedal enthusiasts a unique ride while helping to empower local communities back home.
“It’s a plus to have a product that is grown in Africa, made in Africa and exported to everywhere else in the world,” says Zambikes co-founder Mwewa Chikamba. “It’s rare that we have such incentives coming through, mostly we are importing stuff from the rest of the world.”
Eye-catching, super light and extremely durable, bamboo bicycles have gained traction in recent years, becoming a popular alternative to traditional steel or aluminium bikes. The material, one of nature’s fastest growing resources, has great shock absorbing abilities that contribute to a smooth and eco-friendly ride.
“It’s a green project and we are encouraging other entities and industries to look at ways and means of bringing down the levels of pollution,” says Lusaka-born Chikamba, 43. “We produce it in a manner that is pollution-free and isn’t by any chance devastating to the global warming issues.”