Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Marian Chombo, yesterday officially flagged off the eighth edition of the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke, praising the event for promoting endurance, unity, and compassion while shining a spotlight on Zimbabwe’s social and economic heartbeat.
Speaking during a colourful launch ceremony at Zimplats in Selous, Minister Chombo said the annual cycling event had evolved into one of the country’s most inspiring platforms for sport, wellness, and community engagement.
“It brings together cyclists from across the nation and beyond, uniting them in purpose and passion,” she said. “Allow me to express my heartfelt appreciation to the organisers, sponsors, and volunteers whose dedication and teamwork have made this event possible. To our title sponsor, Nedbank, and all supporting partners, your investment in sport and community empowerment continues to make a lasting difference.”
Minister Chombo described the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke as “more than just a cycling challenge,” calling it a journey of discovery that celebrates the province’s scenic landscapes, rich culture, and vast economic potential.
“Riding for Opportunity reminds us that sport can open doors, promote tourism, empower local businesses, and create employment in our communities,” she said. “Riding for Wellness underscores the importance of healthy living and active lifestyles, particularly at a time when our youth face challenges such as drug and substance abuse. Riding for Charity reflects the heart of this tour, supporting the Gifted Children Foundation which provides educational assistance to bright but underprivileged learners.”
Running under the theme “Riding for Wellness, Opportunity and Charity,” this year’s tour brings together both elite and social cyclists who will cover a demanding route stretching from Selous to Zvishavane, passing through Chegutu, Kadoma, Kwekwe, Gweru, and Shurugwi.
Tour founder Munyaradzi Hwengwere said he was pleased by the strong turnout, noting that the tour continues to grow in impact and reach each year.
“This is just pleasing; we are really happy with the turnout. We are looking forward to another successful tour with a mixture of young and old cyclists,” he said.
Event organiser and Paralympian Elliot Mujaji confirmed that the opening leg went smoothly, with cyclists arriving safely in Kwekwe just before 4 PM after stopovers in Chegutu and Kadoma, where cheering schoolchildren lined the route.
The peloton will rest overnight in Kwekwe before proceeding to Unki Mine in Gweru on Friday, ahead of the final stretch to Zvishavane on Saturday. The event will conclude with an elite 80km race, rounding off three days of cycling, camaraderie, and community impact.
