PEDAL POWER IN IDAS VALLEY: MINISTER SILEKU HANDS OVER BICYCLES TO LOCAL GROUPS

PEDAL POWER IN IDAS VALLEY: MINISTER SILEKU HANDS OVER BICYCLES TO LOCAL GROUPS By: Staff Reporter I Stellenbosch STELLENBOSCH Excitement was in the air in Idas Valley on Saturday, 25 October, as Western Cape Minister of Mobility Isaac Silekuhanded over 44 bicycles to community organisations, part of a provincewide drive to make getting around safer, easier, and more sustainable. The bicycles are part of the Provincial Sustainable Transport Programme PSTP , which helps people who walk long distances to school, work, or community activities. Beneficiaries also get safety training and basic maintenance support. "A bicycle may look simple, but it represents freedom, dignity, and opportunity," said Minister Sileku. "These bicycles will help learners get to school on time, support workers to save on transport, and give neighbourhood watches the tools to patrol their communities." Local councillor Reginald Pheiffer praised the collaboration, saying it reflects Stellenbosch's vision for a connected, inclusive town. Community groups were thrilled to receive the bicycles. Sandra Daniels from Angels of Hope Community Development Organisation said, "These bikes will make it so much easier for us to carry out our programmes and reach more people in need. Thank you to everyone involved!" Jan Scannell from Prochorus Community Development NPC added that cycling gives young people purpose and even opens up new opportunities, including in tourism. The bicycles will be shared among local organisations, including Idas Valley Community Trails, Angels of Hope, Methodist Church of South Africa Wellington , Prochorus, and neighbourhood watch groups. With projects like this, the Western Cape is helping communities move more freely, stay safe, and live healthier lives.