Meli Ndlovu, a dedicated cyclist born in Zimbabwe and based in Midrand, Gauteng, is beginning the year 2025 by making a positive impact on people.
Ndlovu is gearing up for a monumental cycling journey that aims to cover nearly 10,000km from Cape Town to Cairo. Scheduled to commence on 25 April 2025, this ambitious expedition not only seeks to raise awareness about drug abuse and promote healthy living through sports, but also aims to showcase the rich diversity and beauty of Africa.
At 44 years of age, the father of three has a heart for inspiring the youth, which fuels his determination to complete this epic ride within 44 days, road conditions permitting. He plans to cycle an impressive 300km each day, resting as needed, while being accompanied by close friend and fellow cyclist David Sijobe. Their route will take them through several countries, including Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya and Sudan. For overnight rest and refreshments, they will seek help from churches, hotels and guest houses along the way.
"Sports keep you busy and help you focus on your future," Ndlovu stated. He believes that engaging in physical activities, such as cycling, can steer young people away from destructive paths such as drug addiction, which has claimed too many young lives. "I want to show young people that there are better ways to spend your time than getting involved with drugs," he added.
His relationship with cycling began in 2012, when he took to the roads simply as a means to commute. His journey accelerated in 2015 when he joined Teamview, a cycling team that became instrumental in honing his skills. With the guidance of his teammates, Ndlovu learned about nutrition, safety measures, and the essential techniques that have shaped his cycling performance over the years. “I’ve learned so much, from the right foods to eat to the gear I need to stay safe,” he reflected.
The ambitious Cape to Cairo journey aims not only to establish a Guinness World Record for the longest cycling trip across Africa, but is also envisioned as an event laden with lessons about health and life. Adequate sponsorship is crucial for Ndlovu, who is appealing for financial support, as well as donations of bicycles — both road and mountain bikes — necessary for navigating a mixture of tarred and unpaved roads. “Some roads in Africa are not good, so I’ll need a strong bike to handle rough terrain,” he noted.
Accomplished cyclist Meli Ndlovu and fellow cyclists on the road. Picture: Supplied
In addition to bicycles, Ndlovu is on the lookout for a Garmin tracking device to have his journey live-tracked and validated, reassuring supporters that he will tackle the challenge without shortcuts. "I want the world to see that it’s possible to achieve great things, even when the journey is tough," Meli remarked.
Despite the monumental task awaiting him, his success, exemplified by a recent 865km journey from South Africa to Zimbabwe, showcases his unwavering dedication. This ride drew participation from prominent figures, further enhancing the tourist spotlight Ndlovu hopes to shine on cycling while encouraging communal participation.
Now, as he prepares for the Cape to Cairo ride, Ndlovu invites not only sponsors but also fellow cyclists to join him along the way, as the camaraderie of group cycling can significantly enhance safety and morale during the long trek. His rallying call finds an echo in the shared belief that movement inspires action, and together, they can convey a vital message: “Good health, good life in Africa.”
To prepare for the big ride, he is cycling almost every day; on 14 January 2025, he plans to cycle from Bulawayo to Botswana, a 230km ride. "I keep my body fit by cycling, running and doing aerobics. I avoid oily foods and drink lots of water, as well as energy drinks," he said.
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