Ride4Hope, Nelson Mandela Foundation, Corporates and Cycling Community are
taking its impact work across the border, with Mozambique playing host to the initiative, a first
in the event’s nine-year history. The four-day, 570km cross border journey will see over 100
cyclists tackle the much-awaited journey that will see school infrastructure contribution on both
sides of the Mozambican and South African borders on 02-05 September 2026.
Starting in Bela Vista, Mozambique, traversing into KZN and making its final stop at the Nelson
Mandela Capture site. The 4-day cycle ride that seeks to carry the messaging of Nelson Mandela
will see over 100 cyclists take on the 570km track which will not only see them cover this
momentous distance, but will also see impact driven work through the Clasrooms4hope
initiative, which will see school infrastructure being donated to a number of needy schools along
the towns the event passes, starting in Bela Vista, Mozambique.
“Every year, Ride for Hope Legacy reminds us that real impact is not created from a distance; it
is created when we show up, year after year, and walk the journey with communities. For
ROMPCO, our continued support is about more than building classrooms or handing over
infrastructure. It is about helping to restore dignity, unlock potential and create learning spaces
where children can dream beyond their circumstances. As we sponsor this initiative for the
fourth consecutive year, we remain deeply committed to being a partner in hope, progress and
lasting change.” – Chuma Mxo, Manager, Branding, Communications & CSI –
ROMPCO.
The 2026 edition marks 9 years of the initiative, which has contributed enormously to education
in South Africa, nearing its 50th classroom donation for under-resourced schools. Through the
generous efforts of partners including ABSA, Hulamin, MTN SA, Rompco, Umgeni-Uthukela
Water, Aspen and LDV South Africa, three schools have been identified and
will be
beneficiaries of multiple classrooms and refurbishments to assist in alleviating overcrowding.
“Through initiatives like these, we strive to empower individuals with knowledge and skills,
address critical community needs, and create a brighter future for all. We are honored to use
sport, cycling in particular to play a part in the advancement of education and the well-being of
our communities and we look forward to the positive outcomes that our collective efforts will
achieve.” Said Ride4hope’s Founding director, Luthando Kaka.
The Ride4Hope will make various stops in Sodwana Bay, Hluhluwe, Richard’s Bay, Ballito and
Howick, and through the Classrooms4hope initiative make classrooms donation in line with the
Legacy Project approach of leaving a lasting legacy at every town visited.
On their fourth year of participation, Absa’s Managing Executive: Corporate Citizenship, Mr.
Setlogane Manchidi said “At Absa, we are thrilled to partner with Ride4Hope, turning South
Africans’ love for cycling into lasting impact for learners, teachers and schools. This initiative is
about more than just the kilometers covered – it’s about creating better learning environments and
giving our colleagues the opportunity to make a difference through their passion for cycling. As
we set off on the fourth edition of Ride4Hope, we do so with pride, purpose and the
determination to keep changing lives where it matters most.”
“At the Nelson Mandela Foundation, we are inspired by initiatives that move beyond symbolism
and create tangible impact in people’s lives. The Legacy Ride4Hope combines participation,
solidarity, and action in a way that reflects the values Madiba stood for. As the ride expands into
Mozambique, it reminds us that the challenges of poverty and inequality do not stop at national
borders, and neither should our commitment to addressing them.” Concluded Dr Mbongiseni
Buthelezi, CEO of the Nelson Mandela Foundation.
