EASTERN PROVINCE Following a ban on cycling for commercial purposes on Rwamagana highways, owners have now turned to motorcycles. Police and local leaders banned the bicycles citing accidents as the reason behind the ban. Speaking at a function to give out new uniforms to 50 members grouped under an association called ATRA-VELO, the district Mayor, Valens Ntezirembo, said acquiring the new facilities was a good gesture of development. “I am happy you have made the right choice to shift from cycling to riding motorcycles. This is a symbol of development on your part and the district on the other hand,” Ntezirembo told the group at the district Complex hall. “Of the 50 uniforms 20 uniforms were a contribution from the district, a symbol of commitment by district officials to supporting young associations,” he added. According to traffic records in 2007, of the 77 accidents that occurred in Rwamagana, 27 of them were caused by cyclists. The accidents led to the death of 16 people including 9 cyclists. Promising district support, Mayor Ntezirembo told the youth that the ban on their bicycle business was intended to make them think of other alternative jobs rather than risking their lives. Ends
