Online Reporter
Blessed Moyo, Sunday Life Reporter
AFTER completing an epic 11-country cycling tour that started in South Africa and ended in Kenya, Vusumuzi Mnkandla and his partner, Thando Tshuma began their second instalment of their adventure, dubbing it “Season Two” of their continental sojourn.
Since commencing their journey, the pair has traversed through breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures in Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi and are currently making their way through Zambia.
In an interview with Sunday Life, Thando expressed her excitement about the journey saying Africa has so much to offer, from its warm people to its incredible landscapes.
“We’re thrilled to be exploring this beautiful continent on two wheels and we have learnt a lot from different countries and cultures,” she said.
She revealed that their Season Two cycling journey has been a wild ride, full of twists, turns and breathtaking vistas.
As the saying goes, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step and for this dynamic duo, that step has led them on an unforgettable adventure across Africa.
From the incredible views of Mount Kilimanjaro to the warm hospitality of the Maasai people in Kajiado, their journey has been a treasure trove of experiences.
“We have been blessed to see some of Africa’s most incredible sights and the people we have met along the way have been truly amazing,” she said.
Thando said as they cycled through Tanzania’s mountains, they encountered tough climbs, but the views from the top were breathtaking.
“It was tough, but the scenery was worth it,” she revealed. Their journey took an exciting turn when they took a boat to Malawi, the first-time experience for the couple.
“It was super exciting and adventurous and I loved it. Even though it was a real challenge, we managed to make it through,” Thando said.
In Malawi, they rode through the rugged Mkhwekwelele Mountains, a region rarely visited.
One special moment that stood out for them was their visit to Dimba School where they shared their story with enthusiastic pupils.
“Seeing their faces light up was incredible. That is what our jourwey is all about – inspiring people to chase their dreams,” she said.
As they travelled through Kenya, Tanzania and Malawi, they had the honour of meeting with the Zimbabwean ambassadors in each country.
“They were so welcoming and supportive and we also met some amazing Zimbabweans living in those countries,” revealed Thando.
In Zambia, they experienced the vibrant Ncwala ceremony, a Ngoni celebration in Chipata.
“It was fascinating to learn about the BaNgoni and realise how much other cultures and our Zimbabwean culture have in common,” Thando reflected. However, their journey has not been without its challenges.
Thando acknowledged that they have faced scorching heat and torrential rain, testing their physical and mental endurance.
But as the proverb goes, “when the going gets tough, the tough get going” and for Thando and her partner that is exactly what it is.
Their story serves as a reminder that travel is more than the seeing of sights, it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent in the ideas of living.
For the couple, their African odyssey has been a journey of discovery, growth and inspiration.
However, as the couple cycled their way through 11 countries, Thando achieved something much more remarkable – she etched her name in the history books.
She has become the first black female cyclist from Zimbabwe to embark on a remarkable journey that began as an adventure.
Thando has shattered stereotypes and defied conventions, inspiring countless young women and girls across Zimbabwe and beyond.
Thando’s achievement serves as a testament to her determination, resilience and passion for cycling.
“I never set out to break records or make history, I simply wanted to explore Africa and experience its beauty. But as I cycled through each country, I realised that I was part of something much bigger than myself,” she said humbly.
