STROOM - Greater Stellenbosch Trust

Investing in Impact

P4G has awarded the partnership about US $345,000 in grant funding.

The STROOM - Greater Stellenbosch Trust (GST) partnership is driving a shift towards zero-emission deliveries in South Africa by expanding the use of cargo e-bikes in townships and cities. Its key objectives include testing and refining sustainable e-bike leasing models, developing educational programs for local entrepreneurs, and integrating e-bikes into urban logistics.

South Africa is significantly behind in electric vehicle (EV) adoption for last-mile delivery, largely due to high upfront costs and inadequate infrastructure. Existing EV solutions often lack the versatility needed for last-mile logistics, especially in townships with narrow and poor roads. STROOM, a women-led cargo e-bike manufacturer, has developed robust intellectual property rooted in local expertise garnered through extensive testing and adaptation.

To date, it has successfully introduced four cargo e-bike models to the market, providing an affordable, efficient and eco-friendly option tailored for urban delivery. With over 35,000 km of deliveries in townships, STROOM's e-bikes prove effective in these environments. Furthermore, with high logistical costs associated with cargo e-bike imports, STROOM, as the sole domestic manufacturer in South Africa, has a strong competitive positioning.

GST is a public trust that supports human rights, civic space and community initiatives. Since its establishment in 2001, GST has grown to become a cornerstone, providing significant contributions to the Kayamandi community and continuing to support local development through various projects.

In 2023, the STROOM-GST partnership conducted a cargo e-bike pilot study funded by the Bavarian Government and overseen by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). This program led to the establishment of three Black-owned delivery businesses in Soweto, Llanga and Kayamandi, employing 17 drivers and deploying 12 STROOM cargo e-bikes. It completed over 35,000 km of deliveries, reducing CO2 emissions by 3.8 tons.

Stroom has undertaken the necessary research and registration processes to ensure its products comply with both national and international standards, covering manufacturing processes and product requirements for certification. As a result, STROOM has obtained International Standards Compliance Certification (IEC 60335-1) as well as import certification from the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS).

To date, STROOM’s innovative cargo e-bike solutions were showcased at major international events and strategic meetings. STROOM exhibited its cargo e-bike technology at the Smart Mobility Conference hosted by Vuka Group and participated in a panel on e-mobility's role in solving urban logistics challenges. The startup pitched its business case to investors during SAVANT’s Investor Open Day, engaging stakeholders in support of its township rollout plans. STROOM also exhibited at the 2025 P4G Vietnam Summit, Eurobike and the International Cargo Bike Festival, where it co-exhibited with its partner Jatco, a Nissan subsidiary, helping scale STROOM’s e-bike production.

STROOM signed a supplier agreement with Dutch manufacturer Alligt, ensuring access to high-performance cargo e-bike wheels for STROOM’s production line. In a move toward full circularity, STROOM partnered with Advanced Battery Technologies to integrate recycled lithium-ion batteries into its cargo e-bikes.

STROOM launched its first township campaign in Soweto alongside operational partner Shovebike, supported by the City of Johannesburg. The event promoted youth entrepreneurship and sustainable jobs through cargo e-bike adoption, underscoring STROOM’s grassroots approach to urban mobility.

A collaboration with Jatco was formalized through a signed MOU, enabling STROOM to integrate Jatco’s ZMO motor technology into its e-bikes and showcase them at international exhibitions, including the Taipei Cycle Show, China Cycle, and Eurobike.

STROOM’s Long-John cargo e-bike powered by Jatco was a key feature at the Taipei Cycle Show 2025, one of the world’s largest B2B cycling events. The exhibition marked a milestone for STROOM, enhancing its global visibility and initiating discussions with suppliers and potential partners across Asia and Europe.

STROOM received a grant from the uYilo Mobility Programme to develop its Delta E-Trailer, a modular electric trailer designed for last-mile delivery in both African and European cities. The Delta E-Trailer complies with EU Machinery Directive standards and offers a scalable, clean solution for logistics in urban, peri-urban and township settings.

STROOM completed nine months of pilot operations across several township and rural settings, including Bredasdorp, Langa, Thembisa, Soweto and Stellenbosch. These pilots tested long-term and short-term leasing models, provided real-world insights on parcel types, rider behavior, hub operations and maintenance needs. Key learnings include the need for durable cargo bikes, rigorous daily inspections, reliable access to spare parts, competitive delivery pricing, and depot-style hubs for storage, repairs and rider coordination. Pilot results strengthened STROOM’s business model.

STROOM is developing a comprehensive rider and mechanic training program to ensure safety, technical competence and long-term fleet sustainability. The curriculum will include digital modules, in-person workshops, supervised ride-outs and an accredited mechanic course delivered in partnership with uYilo and the Engineering Council of South Africa. Partnerships with local organizations such as the Langa Bicycle Hub, Shovebike, Hendrikse Green Delivery, Smartfill and Harambee are strengthening this ecosystem.

During this partnership period, the STROOM-GST partnership seeks to create 420 green jobs and continue expanding its e-bike fleet. It will also conduct workshops to highlight the benefits of cargo e-bikes and advocate for supportive policies and infrastructure, such as dedicated bike lanes and secure parking, to facilitate the adoption of cargo e-bikes.

By focusing on eco-friendly solutions, strategic policy enhancements and fostering a regulatory environment that champions sustainable urban mobility, the STROOM-GST partnership is paving the way for greener, more efficient last-mile delivery services in South Africa.

The partnership comprises the following partners: STROOM (lead business partner); Greater Stellenbosch Trust (lead administrative partner).