As the ship approaches the African coast, the excitement at the Malawi Project and Action for Progress intensifies. With over 380 forty-foot shipping containers delivered to Malawi in the past 33 years, one might wonder why this container holds significance. The answer lies in its status as the inaugural container to contain more than 300 of the newly introduced Action Trikes.
The Action Trike represents a comprehensive redesign of the mobility units sent to Malawi in recent years. Collectively, these mobility devices have achieved remarkable success, comprising nearly 3,000 units since 2018. Mobility Ministries, led by Robert and Arla Gabrielse, and their team have developed a close bond with the Malawi Project and Action for Progress through their contributions of mobility units. Notably, these units also drew the attention of the Malawi government, leading to the establishment of a collaborative partnership between AfP and the government to address mobility challenges. This initiative gained widespread recognition and fostered a mutually beneficial relationship between the government and AfP mobility programs that has spread nationwide.
Several benefits are evident in the new design. First, the body of the unit drops down to just 4.5 inches off the ground, compared to the previous unit’s 7.5 inches. This lower design facilitates easier access for recipients. Second, a plastic molded frame replaces the wood structure, providing a more durable and efficient solution. Units now have 19.5” flat free wheels that have replaced the former 15” wheels, enhancing the unit’s stability and maneuverability. A redesigned frame offers a smoother ride, improving the comfort and experience for users.
Mobility is a major issue in Malawi and few people in village areas can afford to own any type of mobility devise. If they have mobility issues, they have no hope of it ever changing. Bob Gabrielse observes, “This vehicle not only gives Mobility, but also brings Dignity, and along with that, it inspires Hope!”
While Mobility Ministries donates the units, there is the cost to ship them across the ocean and distribute them nationwide. Your support will assist in getting those units into the hands of those who need them. For many of them it will open the door to be able to support themselves, their families, and be able to live a more fulfilling life.