The 8th edition of the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke kicked off today at Zimplats in Selous, uniting cyclists, mining houses, corporates, and community leaders in a vibrant display of endurance, wellness, and social impact under the theme “Riding for Opportunity, Wellness and Charity.”
The day’s journey began with an energetic send-off, as the peloton set off towards Chegutu, Kadoma, and Kwekwe, marking the first leg of the three-day cycling event that traverses Zimbabwe’s mineral-rich Great Dyke corridor.
Officially launching the 2025 edition, Tour founder Munyaradzi Hwengwere highlighted the Great Dyke’s enduring importance to Zimbabwe’s economy and cultural identity.
“The Great Dyke is the greatest of its kind in the world — 550 kilometres long and 12 kilometres wide. It’s the foundation of Zimbabwe’s mineral wealth and a symbol of our strength and unity,” said Hwengwere.
He revealed that organizers are producing a new publication, “The Great Dyke Beyond the Rock,” which will document the geological, economic, and cultural significance of the region. The book — supported by the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development and the Geological Society of Zimbabwe — will feature contributions from local authorities across Kadoma, Kwekwe, Gweru, Shurugwi, and Zvishavane.
Hwengwere also emphasized the humanitarian side of the event, noting that proceeds from the tour fund the Gifted Children Foundation, which supports vulnerable but talented learners from communities along the Great Dyke.
“So far, over 100 students have been taken through school from the proceeds of this initiative, with some having graduated from university. This is why we ride — to make a difference,” he said.
He extended appreciation to key partners including Zimplats, Unki, Mimosa, Sabi Gold, Fidelity Gold Refinery, and title sponsor Nedbank Zimbabwe, for their continued support and commitment to community development.
Representing the title sponsor, Nedbank Zimbabwe Senior Brand and Marketing Manager, Joel Gombera, reaffirmed the bank’s long-standing partnership with the tour and its dedication to national progress.
“As a long-standing partner in Zimbabwe’s development journey, Nedbank is honoured to support this iconic event which not only showcases athletic excellence but also celebrates the Great Dyke corridor,” said Gombera.
“Our presence here reflects our commitment to building sustainable partnerships with industry, government, and communities. We believe in the power of sport to inspire, connect, and drive positive change — including mental well-being,” he added.
The peloton made a memorable stop at Martin Spur Secondary School, where excited students received books donated by Men for Equality. The school’s headmaster shared the institution’s ambitions to expand its science curriculum and build a low-cost boarding facility for learners walking long distances to school.
From there, the riders proceeded to Kadoma, where they were warmly received by local councillors and residents who came out in numbers to celebrate the cause of wellness, opportunity, and charity.
The day concluded with the cyclists arriving in Kwekwe, where Nedbank announced that it would return to the City of Gold in 2026, reaffirming its continued partnership with the Great Dyke communities. The peloton will rest overnight in Kwekwe before continuing the journey to Gweru tomorrow.
The Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke, running from November 6 to 8, continues to be a powerful platform for promoting healthy living, community engagement, and inclusive development across Zimbabwe’s mining heartland.
