Mariama Timbo, the only female motorcyclist in Sierra Leone's Bombali district, has reshaped her life through her work, challenging gender norms. At 26, she transports people and goods to Makeni, gaining respect and recognition in her community. After overcoming personal adversity, including sexual abuse, she sought training from eWomen, an NGO that empowered her to secure a grant for motorcycling. With motorcycle transport being vital in rural areas, Timbo's journey not only supports her financially but also serves as an inspirational narrative of resilience and empowerment for women.
With nearly 60% of Sierra Leone's rural population living in poverty, commercial riding offers income to hundreds of thousands â nearly all of them men.
She managed to move out and pay for the last years of school by doing odd jobs in Makeni but couldn't afford further education.
At first when I started, people were mocking me, she says. Now they see how my life has changed since I started riding the bike.
Timboâs story highlights the unique challenges women face in breaking into traditionally male-dominated roles and the impact of community support.
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