Understanding the many uses of transport devices
 
Transport devices often benefit several families through formal or informal hiring systems.

Rural women and men develop many different uses for intermediate means of transport. As transport devices increase, there is more mobility of people and goods, with increasing economic activity and social benefits.

Photograph by Paul Starkey ©
Simple cart acting as an ambulance in Ethiopia

Photograph by Paul Starkey ©

When rural people own intermediate means of transport, they develop many different uses for them. Bicycles are used for load carrying as well as personal transport. Farm carts may carry domestic water and fuel wood. Simple, adaptable designs are often best for household use. Flatbed carts are more versatile than water carts. Professional transporters may prefer efficient specialised designs.



A motorcycle, fitted with donkey panniers, carrying sheep in the Dominican Republic