MISSION STATEMENT:
To alleviate the poverty, hardships, injuries, and inefficiencies of impoverished farmers and workers in Ethiopia through an innovative multi-purpose transportation wagon that is affordable and locally produced. Farmers of Ethiopia lack access to safe transportation to get their harvest to market several miles away. About 75% of Ethiopian farmers are at least a day’s walk from
the nearest road. Out of approximately 15,000 miles of road in Ethiopia, only about 2,000 miles are actually paved. These particular carts lack basic safety features such as reflectors for night time travel and a braking system. More often loads are carried upon the backs of Ethiopian farmers, which is strenuous and inefficient creating health risks. In addition, access to water in the remote villages has caused severe health problems, particularly for women and children. We believe we have a real solution to a real problem that is feasible, measurable, achievable, and affordable. The GaariGaari will enhance the efficiency of everyday agricultural, business, and water gathering activities. Unlike the current carts on the market that are antiquated, inefficient and unsafe, the GaariGaari utilizes a braking system, safety reflectors, and tools to transport water in order to bring many efficiencies to a single wagon. The braking system allows farmers to control the wagon, preventing accidents that occur daily due to lack of the ability to stop the wagon while going down hills. It also incorporates a water wheel attachment to help farmers to transport water more safely and efficiently from the source of water back to the village. Additionally, there will also be reflectors attached to the cart in necessary areas to help to reduce accidents and deaths when travelling at night. The wagon will come in two distinct sizes. One will be adjustable for animals of various shapes and sizes. The other will be small enough for it to be human powered which would be geared more toward shorter trips to town or for water. In addition, the GaariGaari will be locally produced, which will help to create jobs and reduce poverty in local villages and in turn creating national economic impact.
