Small Choices, Big Difference
We crossed 34 countries on our journey from Africa to the UK, each leaving its own impression.
Rwanda surprised us more than most countries we travelled through.
Before arriving, I'd read about its remarkable recovery following the 1994 genocide. What I hadn't expected was how immediately visible that recovery would be – not only in its people and wildlife, but in something as simple as the streets.
Crossing the border at Rusumo, our bikes were searched. Not for drugs, weapons or drones, but for plastic bags, which were banned in Rwanda in 2008, with the restrictions expanded to other single-use plastics in 2019.
The difference was visible.
Roadsides and waterways were clean, the result of strong state-led policies that were enforced rather than optional. We later discovered that, on monthly community clean-up days, businesses close and people assemble to sweep streets and clear drains. It's organised. Expected.
Rwanda sharpened our attention.
After that, it was easy to see how choices about waste, water, mining, climate and conservation played out everywhere we rode.
Excerpt from : The Accidental Motorcyclist, 2026
Rwanda reminded us that the environment we live in is rarely accidental. It reflects the choices we make – individually, collectively and over time.
