Cycle Africa:
A 10,000-Kilometre Bike Expedition Across Africa Connecting With Impactful Organisations
About
Hi, I’m Ellie—an experienced bikepacker and international development professional with a passion for exploring.
This year, I’m taking on a 10,000-kilometre bikepacking expedition across Sub-Saharan Africa. Along the way, I’ll be connecting with local development organisations, spotlighting their work and exploring the diverse interventions across the continent— all while raising funds for Plan International.
This journey goes beyond adventure, focusing on amplifying voices, driving collaboration, and contributing to sustainable impact.
Motivation
I am continuously inspired by local development organisations and their ability to drive meaningful change through locally-led solutions that often hold valuable lessons for projects worldwide.
Purpose
To map and engage with key actors in Africa’s development ecosystem, showcasing the impact of local organisations, amplifying their positive influence, and encouraging greater support and recognition for their work.
Cycling
With years of experience on the road, I find that bike-packing offers a unique, immersive, and sustainable way to explore diverse landscapes and connect meaningfully with communities.
The Route
This 10,000-kilometre expedition from Kigali to Cape Town, will take me through 10 countries across Eastern and Southern Africa, including:
Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, and South Africa.
Each country will offer unique challenges and experiences as I navigate diverse terrains and adapt to their distinct landscapes and cultures.
Partners
Friends of Bata empowers young people by providing funding, mentorship, and resources to turn their innovative ideas into impactful community projects.
With a shared focus on entrepreneurial activity, they are an ideal partner, helping me shape the key themes from the journey to inform and empower future change-makers.
GlobalGiving supports local projects by providing resources, training, and a rigorous vetting process to ensure they are ready to connect with a global donor network.
This partnership will ensure I connect with credible, high-impact organisations highlighting innovative and effective solutions that tackle challenges in their communities.
Pioneer Risk is providing security advice to support safe route planning throughout my journey.
Their expertise in remote and high-risk environments will help me navigate challenges, ensuring I can travel safely while focusing on engaging with local organisations.
Become a Sponsor
Becoming a sponsor for Cycle Africa is a unique opportunity to join a dedicated community and support a purpose-driven expedition that blends adventure, advocacy, and sustainable development.
Your support will not only help spotlight the work of local NGOs, promote their initiatives, and strengthen collaboration in the international development sector but also contribute to raising funds for Plan International.