From Gqeberha to Pretoria: A Ride for Justice

A young South African, Mivuyo Qabo (19) has set out on a solo cycling trip from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape to Pretoria, aiming to raise awareness about gender-based violence, domestic violence, and child abuse in the country.

The 1200km journey, which will take approximately 8-10 days, will see Qabo travel through towns including Port Alfred, East London, Komani, Aliwal North, Bloemfontein, and Kroonstad before reaching the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Human Rights Day.

Qabo’s mission is to spark conversations and inspire communities to take collective responsibility in protecting women and children.

“Every day we see heartbreaking stories in the news and in our communities. I felt that as a young South African, I could not remain silent,” he said.

The campaign has also launched a fundraising effort, with donations to be directed towards charitable causes supporting vulnerable women and children through the Mivuyo Qabo Foundation.

Qabo will begin his journey on Monday (16/03) after being dropped on the last minutes by his cycle sponsor, however, he managed to acquire another sponsor which asked for three days to contact its supplier.

His journey should have started on Wednesday (11/03) as part of the “Cycle for Change: Protect the Child” campaign, an advocacy initiatives taking place during Human Rights Month.

He said he is not an avid cyclist but he aims to put himself through the gruelling experience for the greater good.

“I am cycling as a physical symbol of struggle and pain. I have a selfwritten memorandum that I will hand over to the president about issues related to gender based violence,” he said.

He said it was important to involve the youth in the fight against gender based violence and that should start in schools.

“Mentorship is one way to change things. This is a very important initiative towards raising awareness and making change around gender based violence,” he said.

He said:“We are not riding to make awareness alone, we are riding because awareness without action is just noise. We ride to demand change.”

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality joined community members in support of Qabo.

“The campaign highlights the collective responsibility of communities, organisations, and government to stand against violence and advocate for the safety, dignity, and protection of women and children,” said the municipality.

The municipality commended Qabo for the courageous initiative and wished him strength and safety as he carries this important message across South Africa.