Alternative Bank, UK gov’t train Kano women electric tricycle drivers, mechanics

In a groundbreaking move towards transforming transportation and enhancing the security of women, Kano State witnessed the launch of a first-of-its-kind electric tricycle programme.

The Alternative Bank, in collaboration with the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and Qoray Mobility, last Thursday unveiled this innovative social impact initiative, providing women with fully electric tricycles and comprehensive training.

This project flips the script on traditional transportation in Kano and marks a new chapter for the expertly trained women ready to ferry passengers and goods through the city’s streets.

With 120 women from the Mata Zalla and Yar Baiwa cooperatives having undergone comprehensive training, they are now proficient tricycle drivers and mechanics.

The electric tricycles enable women to generate income by providing local transportation services and operating small delivery businesses.

“This initiative is a double win,” Alhaji Garba Mohammed, Executive Director of The Alternative Bank, declared, adding that, “Our electric tricycles are designed to address significant concerns regarding the safety of female passengers and children while at the same time safeguarding the environment.”

Adamu Maikano, Regional Coordinator of Kaduna and Kano states for the UK’s FCDO highlighted the broader impact of the initiative saying, “The UK government, a longstanding ally of Nigeria, is committed to facilitating investment, trade and economic development.”

Emphasising the collaborative effort in facilitating the pilot of the EV project, Maikano further said, “The UK FCDO-funded LINKS programme worked with two women’s cooperatives in Kano – Mata Zalla and Yar Baiwa, The Alternative Bank, and the Kano Road Traffic Agency, to train 85 women, including the certification of 30 mechanics and provision of essential tools.

Olabanjo Alimi, the Head of Qoray Mobility, expressed pride in the initiative and optimism about expanding the pilot programme and improving its electric vehicles.