In Kenya, « the economy is rolling » thanks to Katrina Harris! This bachelor of economics graduate from McGill University set up an ingenious system called Re-Cycle which enables pedicab drivers to become owners rather than renters of their vehicles. Following an in-depth study involving 1,816 of the 10,000 drivers in Kisumu, the third largest city in Kenya, Katrina realized that there was a significant imbalance between their income and the cost of living. In particular, she discovered that, for the past month and, worse still, for the past year, 81 % of the drivers had been unable to meet their everyday needs. Thus, in an aim towards sustainable development, Re-Cycle successfully sought autonomy for the workers. Indeed, by becoming the owner of a vehicle, the cost of renting a pedicab dropped to $0.29 Canadian per day. The money the drivers saved helped them to obtain medical care and send their children to school. Under the umbrella of a non-governmental organization (NGO), the initiative has gained ground among other students who will continue Katrina’s exceptional work. This compassionate economist who, with a simple idea, has been able to improve the world truly deserves our recognition!
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