Online Reporter
Blessed Moyo, Zimpapers Arts Hub
THE cycling odyssey couple from Gokwe, Zimbabwe, is expected to arrive in Bulawayo on Easter Monday, marking the end of an extraordinary journey that saw them pedal through 11 countries over the past year.
The adventurous duo of Thando Tshuma and Vusumuzi Mnkandla, embarked on their epic expedition from Bulawayo on April 10, 2024, traversing South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya.
Two weeks ago, they re-entered Zimbabwe via the Kanyemba Border Post and are now cycling across the country.
Their demanding route will take them through Angwa, Mashumbi Pools, Guruve, Mvurwi, Mazoe, Harare, Gutu and Masvingo before reaching their final destination.
To maintain their endurance, the pair is resting and recharging in Harare for about three to five days, before taking another break in Masvingo, ahead of the final stretch of their adventure.
Speaking to Zimpapers Arts Hub, Tshuma expressed excitement about returning home after nearly a year on the road.
“We are eager to reunite with our families and share stories of our incredible journey. Additionally, we’re looking forward to wrapping up Season Two of our cycling adventure and we cannot wait to see what the future holds,” she said.
The couple has pedalled their way into the record books, completing an amazing 13 300km journey that has seen Tshuma become the first black female bicycle traveller from Zimbabwe.
Tshuma revealed that she experiences a mix of excitement, humility, and a sense of purpose in her role as a pioneering black female bicycle traveller.
“Being the first black female bicycle traveller from Zimbabwe fills me with immense pride,” she said.
“This achievement is not just about setting a record, but it is also about my pride and dignity as a woman. I’m grateful to have shared this journey with my husband, who has been my rock and sole supporter every step of the way,” she said.
“We cannot wait to get home and see our parents and loved ones. Being at home will be a welcome respite from the challenges we have faced on the road. We’re looking forward to relaxing, recharging and reconnecting with our fans, who have supported us every step of the way,” she said.
Despite the thrill of their adventure, they have faced numerous challenges, including unfavourable weather conditions and difficulties in finding suitable camping spots.
Tshuma said she experienced health problems during the journey, including a debilitating ankle injury caused by continuous cycling.
Though the journey has been an eye-opening experience, exposing them to diverse cultures, it has also led to unexpected encounters, including moments when they were mistaken for illegal immigrants.
“While in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, we decided to take an unusual route to explore more of the city. We opted for the coastal path and travelled to a region called Lindi. It was an incredible experience – we had a great time and even had the privilege of meeting Zimbabwe’s ambassador to Tanzania.
“From there, we took a boat from Tanzania to Malawi, which turned out to be quite an adventure. It wasn’t a large ferry but a small boat with a tiny engine, making the journey nerve-wracking. When we arrived in Malawi, late at night, we discovered that the immigration office was closed, meaning we couldn’t get our passports stamped,” shared the couple.
“As a result, we were detained by the police on a ferry and they confiscated our passports. The officers told us we were illegal immigrants and insisted that we return to Tanzania since we hadn’t officially entered the country. After a long discussion, we were finally granted entry.”
Regardless of these setbacks, the couple’s spirits have remained high, thanks in part to the overwhelming support they have received from fans and well-wishers through donations and words of encouragement on their social media pages.
“From the lake in Malawi, we proceeded to Lilongwe, where we had another incredible opportunity to meet
Zimbabwe’s ambassador in Malawi. She generously supported our journey by giving us some funds.”
The couple revealed that they have plans to write a book about their adventures on the road.
The cyclists who have been documenting their journey on social media said that the book will provide a more in-depth look at their experiences, including the challenges they faced and the lessons they learned along the way.
It will also share personal anecdotes and stories.
But that is not all, as the couple also announced that Season Three of their cycling journey is just around the corner. While details are still scarce, fans can expect more exciting adventures and thrilling stories from the couple’s next instalment.
“We’re excited to share our story with the world. The book will be a unique opportunity for our fans to get a behind-the-scenes look at our journey and we cannot wait to start planning our next adventure for Season Three,” said Tshuma.
Their epic journey, which has taken them through numerous countries, has undeniably inspired countless people along the way.
