Olivier ProvostCEO of Yamaha MotorEuropewent to Riders for Health in Gambia. He was able to see how the long-standing partnership between the company and the NGO improves the lives of people by providing essential healthcare to isolated communities.
Since 2022, Yamaha has supported Riders for Health (RfH) for the management of its motorcycles, its fundraising initiatives, and its awareness campaigns. Today, in The Gambia, the organization operates a a 100% Yamaha fleet consisting of 187 AG100 motorcyclesincluding 64 were given by Yamaha. Yamaha also facilitates annual orders for motorcycles and spare parts to keep the fleet in working order.
During his visit, Olivier Provost met with RfH technicians and staff, as well as government-supported healthcare professionals who use motorcycles provided by RfH.
He witnessed firsthand the difficulties faced by members of Gambian communities in accessing healthcare and became aware of the challenges frontline healthcare professionals encounter daily in administering vaccines, monitoring pregnancies, and providing essential care in remote villages. He was deeply impressed by the determination of local communities to take the initiative in creating their own solutions, such as medical centers, and by the close collaboration between the communities, government institutions, and RfH.
RfH's model ensures that each motorcycle is maintained by experts, allowing healthcare professionals to travel safely across challenging terrain. Discussions during the visit focused on the operational realities of delivering healthcare in rural areas and how Yamaha can continue to support the long-term performance of RfH's fleet.
Olivier Provost, CEO of Yamaha Motor Europe NV: “ In Europe, we often think of motorcycles in terms of performance, passion, recreation, or convenience. Visiting Riders for Health reminded me that, in certain contexts, these organizations can also save lives or meet essential needs. Here, it's not simply a means of transportation, but a practical and vital tool that supports individuals and communities. Meeting the professionals and communities who rely on them reinforces the value of our products, our engineering, and our reliability. It's an honor to be part of this program. »
Andrea Coleman, co-founder of Riders for Health and CEO of the UK-based fundraising partner organization Two Wheels for Life: “ For over three decades, Riders for Health has chosen Yamaha AG100 and AG200 motorcycles to transport frontline professionals in sub-Saharan Africa, due to their ease of maintenance, reliability, and adaptability to challenging terrain. A significant milestone in our partnership, 2026 marks the completion of the full renewal of our Gambian fleet, now comprised entirely of Yamaha motorcycles, thanks to the support of Yamaha Motor Europe and our fundraising partner, Two Wheels for Life. The revitalized fleet will allow us to better support vital healthcare for vulnerable communities. We are delighted to welcome Olivier Prevost as we celebrate this important milestone. »
This collaboration is part of the strategy sustainable development 4+ from Yamaha Motor Europe, which defines the path taken by the company towards socially responsible initiatives.
With the current agreement valid until 2027, Yamaha plans to deepen its commitment by continuing to supply motorcycles, support fundraising activities, and raise global awareness of the vital work done by RfH.
« Our role as a partner is to support the teams that make this work possible. » Mr. Prevost added that holds the top spot. " Their expertise and commitment ensure that people in remote areas receive the care they need. We are proud to support them. »