The transportation sector is a vital aspect of socioeconomic development in any society, and Kano, like many other states in Nigeria, has an extensive transportation network. The state's transportation system is predominantly operated by men, and women have been largely excluded from this sector. However, a recent initiative by Sterling Alternative Finance, in partnership with Mata Zalla Women Cooperative and Yar Baiwa Women Cooperative, has provided women in Kano with an opportunity to break the gender barrier and participate in the transportation industry.
The initiative involved the financing of 115 electric-powered tricycles available exclusively for women transporters in Kano. The tricycles, also known as Keke Napeps, are a popular means of transportation in Nigeria, and this initiative is aimed at empowering women to own and operate such vehicles.
The electric tricycles offer numerous benefits to both the women who use them and the environment. Firstly, they are much quieter than traditional petrol-powered vehicles, making them ideal for use in residential areas, particularly at night. They also produce zero-emissions, which reduces pollution levels in the state. Secondly, electric tricycles cost much less to operate than petrol-powered vehicles, which means that women can earn more income from their businesses.
This initiative is not only empowering women but also advocating for the adoption of clean energy and eco-friendly forms of transportation. The Nigerian government has set a target to achieve 30 percent electricity generation from renewable energy sources by 2030. The introduction of electric-powered tricycles is a significant step towards achieving this goal, and it is hoped that more initiatives like this will follow suit.
The Mata Zalla Women Cooperative and Yar Baiwa Women Cooperative are two groups of women who have been trained to operate and maintain the electric tricycles. The women received training in safe driving techniques, basic vehicle maintenance, and charging procedures for the tricycles. This training has enabled them to operate their businesses in a sustainable and responsible manner and to provide safe and reliable transportation services to their clients.
The financing of the electric tricycles is an example of the role that alternative finance can play in supporting micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises. Sterling Alternative Finance has partnered with these groups of women in Kano to provide them with access to finance and business support services. This initiative has contributed to the growth of the transportation industry in the state and has provided women with an opportunity to improve their livelihoods.
The electric tricycles catalog/pdf offers more information about these eco-friendly vehicles and how they can transform the transportation sector. These tricycles are expected to improve the overall quality of life for the women who use them and the environment. It is a progressive move towards promoting gender equality and sustainable development.
In conclusion, empowering women in Kano through the financing of electric tricycles is a step in the right direction. This initiative offers women an opportunity to participate in the transportation industry and operate their businesses sustainably. It also advocates for the adoption of clean energy and eco-friendly transportation forms. It is hoped that more initiatives like this will follow suit and contribute to the sustainable development of Nigeria.