Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke Rolls Through Kadoma in Style
By Admire Chitsungo
The 8th edition of the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke kicked off in grand style at Zimplats Selous on Thursday, drawing together 100 spirited cyclists for the first leg of the prestigious three-day cycling event.
From Selous, the riders pedaled through Chegutu and into Kadoma, showcasing endurance, unity, and purpose under the banner “Riding for Opportunity, Wellness and Charity.”
The annual tour, jointly organized by YA FM and Nedbank Zimbabwe, has become a highlight on the national sporting calendar,blending sport, wellness, and philanthropy in a 328-kilometre journey across Zimbabwe’s mineral-rich Great Dyke belt.
Running from November 6 to 8, 2025, this year’s edition charts a scenic route from Selous to Kwekwe, then Shurugwi, before culminating in Zvishavane. The initiative continues to raise funds for the Gifted Children Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the education of underprivileged learners.
In Kadoma, the cyclists were treated to a warm reception as the city hosted one of the tour’s most vibrant stopovers. Kadoma City Council, represented by Chamber Secretary Willard Mangwengwende, partnered with the business community to provide refreshments and logistical support for the athletes.
The local authority’s Economic Development Committee, chaired by Councillor Michael Mabwe, officially welcomed the riders on behalf of Mayor Councillor Nigel Ruzario.
“We are proud to be part of an event that not only promotes wellness and endurance but also puts Kadoma on the national sporting map,” said Cllr Mabwe. “As a city, we support initiatives that highlight our potential for tourism and investment along the Great Dyke corridor.”
Adding to the city’s generosity, Odyssey Hotel provided refreshments to the cyclists, while residents lined the streets to cheer the athletes, creating a festive and inspiring atmosphere.
Among the cyclists was Portia Chitendere, who praised the Tour de Great Dyke for transforming lives through its empowerment initiatives.
“This event opened doors I never imagined possible,” said Chitendere. “Through my participation, I was able to advance my studies, and even more inspiring is that my son received a scholarship to study at Allan Wilson School through the opportunities created by this platform. The Tour truly rides for opportunity-it changes lives.”
Speaking at the official send-off ceremony earlier at Zimplats Selous, Nedbank Senior Brand and Marketing Manager Joel Gombera reaffirmed the bank’s unwavering support for the initiative.
“It is with immense pride and purpose that Nedbank Zimbabwe stands at the starting line of the Tour de Great Dyke,a celebration of endurance, unity, and the vibrant spirit of our nation,” said Gombera.
He added that the Tour embodies Nedbank’s broader commitment to sustainable partnerships that connect sport, business, and community empowerment.
Tour Director Munyaradzi Hwengwere reflected on the humble beginnings of the event, recalling how it started eight years ago with just nine cyclists inspired by the Great Dyke’s rich natural heritage.
“From those early days, the Tour has grown into a symbol of hope and collaboration,” said Hwengwere. “It promotes the Great Dyke not only as a geological marvel but as a corridor for investment, wellness, and social impact.”
As the cyclists continue their journey toward Kwekwe and Zvishavane, the Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke remains a moving testament to how sport can unite communities, inspire ambition, and create real opportunities across Zimbabwe.
