Think you dig your wheels more than most? Well, you might just have some competition coming your way from Uganda.

“Originally I was looking for interesting car stories to shoot until I was shocked to find these passionate Vespa owners”, explained Israeli photographer Ariel Tagar.

There is little appreciation of restoration in an increasingly modernised Uganda, says Tagar, “but these are proud men who appreciate the quality of their vehicles,” reports The Guardian.

Now, his photo series – which documents the relationship between Ugandans and their Vespas – has been shortlisted in Sony’s 2018 World Photography Awards under the Professional – Portraiture category.

Titled “Uganda’s Vespa Club”, it takes a look at a tight-knit community of men who still own a Vespa today.

While the dominant Ugandan bike model is a cheaper, Indian-made “Boda Boda”, these men have preserved the old tradition of riding Italian Vespas.

Against all odds, in a country with little sentiments to mid-century nostalgia, these men proudly restore and ride their beloved motors amidst scarce spare parts and road-side heckles:

Andrew Kayondo is often heckled by passing boda boda (taxi-bike) riders: ‘You got an old-looking bike there, my friend! Time to get a new boda!’

It turns out that owning a Vespa is a status symbol, with Uganda currently ranked one of the poorest countries in the world:

A leader of a small Muslim community just outside Kampala, Zaidi Sembaaga said, “Vespas gave us much amusement in the past. We’re happy to give them a new life.”

“When we were young we used to ride them wearing bell bottoms and big disco shoes!” says Rev Christopher Kasule.

Imagine that – a Vespa-riding reverend with bell bottoms and disco shoes.

Nathan Mubiru, another member of the Ugandan Vespa club, had some final words to say:

“Vespas are strong, unique and attractive. One we have is 54 years old, but it can serve at least 20 more years with the right care. With other motorbikes you simply cannot do that. Young people here don’t like it, but for me it is exactly what I’m after – something that is strong, beautiful and economical.”

And that’s the truth.

Vespa has long been hailed as top of the pops, and if these Ugandans have convinced you to take the leap then we can help you out.

Visit a Vespa showroom near you – and if they happen to tickle your fancy, email Seth at editor@2oceansvibemedia.com and we can work out a discount.

Don’t forget your subject line, “I want a Vespa, please”.

[source: theguardian]