17 Cyclists cycle 263km to Mutare to raise awareness on SDGs

17 Cyclists cycle 263km to Mutare to raise awareness on SDGs

17 Zimbabwean cyclists began a 263 kilometre ride to Mutare to raise awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under a project called Cycling for SDGs. The event started at the Embassy of the Republic of Malawi, who are also the current SADC chair, with speeches from the Ambassador for Malawi H.E Mwayiwawo Polepole, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Edward Kallon and a Representative of the Ministry of Youth.

After the cutting of the ribbon by Mr. Kallon, the cyclists began their journey on SDG-branded bicycles. They made several stops along the way to interact with people, with a major stop being in Marondera, 80 kilometres east of Harare where 20 local cyclists, the towns’ Mayor, Resident Ministers’ representative and other officials joined them in cycling 500metres for SDGs.

The cyclists reached Mutare on Sunday 8 May after an overnight stop in Rusape. It was in Mutare that the Ambassador for Tanzania, H.E. Professor Emmanuel Mbennah who was acting SADC chair, launched the SADC region Cycling for SDGs. He encouraged young people and women to also participate in cycling for the SDGs as they are well able.

Speaking at this event, UN Resident Coordinator Edward Kallon said: “I am here this morning to show solidarity and reassure you that the United Nations and its entities are with you in advancing our Common Agenda encapsuled in the 17 SDGs.” He added that sport can be used as a low-cost and high-impact tool in development, humanitarian and peace-building efforts not only by the UN but by governments, development agencies, sports federations, NGOs and the media.

The cyclists were riding with a particular SDG in mind. Nkulumo Dube who is a four times National Cycling champion in various categories said he cycled to end poverty, because there can be little development where there is poverty.