How Uganda Bamboo Bike Expedition Sparks Environmental Awareness

When Pius Isabirye, Founder and Team Leader of Comrades to Youths Africa (CTY-Africa), set out on a 714-kilometer bamboo bike journey across Uganda, it was more than a cycling adventure.

It became a mission of hope, resilience, and environmental advocacy to raise awareness about sustainability.

Inspired by the global Solarpunk movement, Isabirye’s expedition combined grassroots activism with innovation, showcasing practical solutions to climate challenges.

“My passion for environmental conservation grew from my friends Guido and Marco in Italy, founders of the Solarpunk Nomads. Marco cycled 1,500 kilometers across Europe, proving sustainable living is possible. That inspired me to recreate a similar journey in Uganda,” he said.

The route, spanning Uganda’s eastern to western borders, was chosen based on familiarity rather than precise planning.

“I wanted a route that resonated with the phrase ‘border to border’ and connected me with friends and communities I knew,” Isabirye explained.

The bamboo bike, crafted by Boogaali Bikes in Kabale, became the centerpiece of the journey.

Its unique properties—rapid growth, minimal water needs, and carbon absorption—aligned perfectly with sustainability goals.

“Bamboo is strong, lightweight, and biodegradable, making it ideal for this expedition,” he noted.

The journey wasn’t without challenges. Poor roads, harsh weather, and mechanical issues tested Isabirye’s resolve.

“The roads in Kampala were chaotic, so I started riding as early as 6 a.m. to avoid rush hour. Mechanical issues were tougher since I didn’t know how to repair bicycles and often relied on community help,” he recounted.

Rain occasionally delayed progress, stretching the planned 14-day trip to 18 days.

Despite these obstacles, Isabirye drew strength from the support of communities and organisations.

“Some provided accommodation, meals, and bike repairs, which kept me going,” he said.

Covering 15 districts, including Tororo, Jinja, Masaka, and Kabale, Isabirye carried a powerful message about climate change and sustainability.

While many were intrigued by the bamboo bike, misconceptions about climate change highlighted the need for more education.

“Most people only associate climate change with rain and sunshine,” he said. Skepticism also arose, with some mistaking him for a fraud or a government spy.

Visits to organisations along the way amplified his message.

In Jinja, FABIO promoted cycling for sustainability, while Inspire a Single Mother in Masaka empowered women. In Namayingo, Ken-Foundation emphasised children’s right to a safe environment, and Trees for the Future educated communities about afforestation.

In Busia, the YES organisation used sports to advocate for environmental conservation.

“These collaborations not only eased the journey but also strengthened the message of sustainability,” Isabirye explained.

Reflecting on the expedition, Isabirye emphasised the power of community engagement and storytelling.

“Grassroots efforts inspire real change, and sharing updates during the ride created deeper connections with supporters,” he said.

Looking ahead, he plans to make the Bamboo Bike Expedition an annual event.

“This is just the beginning. I welcome anyone to join or contribute ideas. Together, we can build a stronger sustainability movement,” he stated.

Rooted in the Solarpunk vision of harmony between technology and nature, Isabirye’s expedition was both a physical challenge and a call to action.

“Sustainability isn’t just a concept—it’s a lifestyle,” he emphasised.

Through this ride, Isabirye has proven that small actions, like cycling on a bamboo bike, can inspire significant change.