Particularly poor access to transport for women and children
Photograph by Paul Starkey ©
Woman, without access to a cart,
carrying forage in Kenya

Women are the main transporters but men are the main users of intermediate means of transport. Gender-related constraints often limit women's access to local transport solutions for trade, production and domestic activities.

 

Men controlling donkey carts transport goods to market in Guinea Bissau

Most work animals and carts are owned by men. Gender-related traditions may make it difficult for women to own work animals. When ownership is difficult, access to transport may be possible through hiring or borrowing arrangements.

Men controlling donkey carts transport goods to market in Guinea Bissau

Photograph by Paul Starkey ©

Male-orientated designs can constrain use by women and children. For example, most bicycles are designed for men. Women and children have problems riding men's bicycle and in most rural locations it is difficult to obtain affordable alternatives.

Child riding adult bicycle with crossbar in Cuba