Did you know that a contribution is made for every Velosolutions PumpTrack Pump for Peace? In early 2023, Pump for Peace, a global initiative of Velosolutions, together with Kasanje Cycling, completed the construction of Uganda's first PumpTrack in the small village of Ziba. This was more than just an addition to the local infrastructure; it is a beacon of positivity and a symbol of hope for the community. More than a year later, we look back on the impact of this project and the wonderful developments that have occurred since its opening.
A place of happiness and safety
The Velosolutions Pump Track in Ziba is a haven for children, where they can play and explore safely. Sam Mutton, who oversees the initiative in Uganda with his team, describes the course as “a place of joy”. In a country where parks are scarce and often inaccessible, the PumpTrack is a rare gem. The PumpTrack is open seven days a week and offers free access to bicycles, ensuring all children, regardless of background, have the opportunity to cycle and have fun.
“Children use the track all the time, even during their lunch break at school,” says Sam. “We have had to establish rules to ensure that they only come after school so that their education is prioritized.” The track is not just about cycling, but also about promoting a sense of community. Children come after school and stay until dark, enjoying a space where they can be themselves.
Community impact and empowerment
The PumpTrack has become a symbol of fun, laughter and hope. It offers children from financially disadvantaged backgrounds an opportunity that was previously unattainable. Cycling, once considered a luxury or a necessity for things like fetching water, has now become a source of joy and freedom.
“This project is about more than just cycling,” says Sam. “It's about creating a fitter, healthier society. We are seeing a real transformation in the community. Children who would otherwise have to grow up too quickly now have the chance to just be kids.”
What else the PumpTrack brings
The PumpTrack has created a domino effect in the local economy. At weekends there is a significant influx of visitors from Kampala, which is a boost for local businesses. “Many local businesses generate more revenue because people stop on the way to the PumpTrack,” Sam notes. This increased economic activity allows families to afford bicycles for their children, fulfilling the dreams of many young cyclists.
Although the cafe has been delayed by bureaucratic obstacles, it will open soon, initially on weekends. The project also includes a toilet and shower block, which is free for cyclists to access, and a large play area that will keep children occupied while they wait for their turn on the PumpTrack.
A vision for the future
Looking ahead, the team is working to integrate the PumpTrack into local school physical education programs. “We have started discussions with various schools to organize gym lessons and sports days at the PumpTrack,” says Sam. “We hope that free classes will be offered throughout the week to get hundreds of children moving for a healthy lifestyle.”
Claudio Caluori, the founder of Velosolutions and Pump for Peace, reflects on the broader impact of these projects. “These are the most important projects for us. Seeing the happiness of these children with the little they have is life-changing. It makes me extremely grateful to make people happy with what we do. When a project develops into a community, creates jobs and encourages a cycling culture, it is incredibly satisfying.”
A global movement
Pump for Peace does not stop at Uganda. A PumpTrack was recently completed in Nicaragua and there are plans to build more in Ghana and Nepal, with many more to follow. This global movement continues to spread joy, create opportunity and empower communities through the simple yet powerful act of cycling.
As we celebrate one year since the first Velosolutions PumpTrack was built in Uganda with a generous contribution from Rotwild, we look forward to how this initiative will continue to grow and bring even more joy and hope to children and communities across the whole world.
All photos and video by Miro Peloso
