Kona bikes is doubling the number of bikes it donates to healthcare workers in Africa to assist in the treatment of HIV/AIDS to 1,000, the company said.
The company said it was able to expand its AfricaBikes donations thanks to its 2-for-1 sales program in which Kona donated one bike for every two purchased by consumers.
The AfricaBikes are delivered to Bicycling magazine and Bristol-Myers Squibbs Secure the Future Foundation BikeTown project and other non-profit and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) whose missions include helping to improve the quality of life in sub-Saharan Africa.
In partnership with Bicycling Magazine and Bristol-Myers Squibb, Kona will be making at least three trips to Africa in June and August. BikeTown representatives, volunteers and bike mechanics will be stopping in Mozambique, Swaziland and twice in South Africa to deliver AfricaBikes, educate Africans about the bikes and lend support in their healthcare mission.
“The idea that we can help in Africa has clearly hit a nerve in the minds of cyclists everywhere,” said Kona Chief Jake Heilbron.
Kona expects to announce soon new projects it is developing with the World Wildlife Foundation and other organizations.
