Meli Ndlovu is not your average cyclist. With the wind in his face and a burning passion in his heart, Ndlovu has become an inspiring figure in the world of long-distance cycling.
Over the past few years, he has cycled countless miles across Southern Africa, often solo and sometimes with a team, sharing his love for cycling and spreading important messages. But what’s next for this cycling enthusiast? A monumental journey that will take him from the southern tip of Africa all the way to Cairo, Egypt.
Cycling Across Borders
Ndlovu’s cycling career began in 2012 when he started riding to work in South Africa. However, it wasn’t until 2015 that he joined Teamview, a cycling group that opened his eyes to the competitive world of cycling.
“I started when I was just cycling to work, but meeting people like Macorey from Teamview helped me improve and see that I could do better,” Ndlovu recalls.
With over 36 medals under his belt, Ndlovu has proven that dedication and support can turn an ordinary cyclist into an extraordinary one.
His most notable accomplishment? Cycling 1,600 kilometers from Durban, South Africa, to Gweru, Zimbabwe, in just four days. This was part of his mission to raise awareness about the dangers of drugs.
“When I first cycled to Zimbabwe, people didn’t fully understand what I was doing, but they supported me a lot. Over time, many have joined in and even cycled with me,” he notes.
In December 2024, Ndlovu raised awareness for drug prevention during his ride through Kezi, Zimbabwe, urging young people to take up sports to keep themselves away from harmful activities.
The Road Ahead: Cape to Cairo
Ndlovu’s journey, however, doesn’t end with his trips across Southern Africa. He is now setting his sights on the much-anticipated Cape to Cairo journey—a challenging and ambitious ride that will take him from Cape Town, South Africa, to Cairo, Egypt.
This journey is not only about breaking personal records, but also about sharing vital messages with young people across Africa.
“We want to teach youth about health and life. They’re the future leaders of our continent, and we must guide them,” he says.
Ndlovu plans to set a Guinness World Record with his journey, which he hopes will bring global attention to the beauty of Africa, as well as the importance of health, education, and sports.
“We will also raise awareness on how we can protect our future, encouraging young people to stay away from drugs and focus on positive activities like cycling,” he explains.
As part of his preparation, Ndlovu is looking for support, especially in the form of sponsorships. His bicycle, made for tarred roads, will need to be swapped for an off-road model in places where the roads are not well-maintained.
To help with this, Ndlovu is requesting donations of two bikes: a road bike and a mountain bike. He also needs a Garmin device, which will track his journey to ensure authenticity.
“Some people have lied about my past journeys, claiming I used vehicles or received help with food. With a Garmin, the entire world will see my progress in real time,” Ndlovu stresses.
A Call for Support
Ndlovu’s recent journey from South Africa to Zimbabwe in December 2024 was a glimpse into what is to come. Starting alone in Midrand, Gauteng, he was joined by a group of supporters, including some prominent figures like MTN South Africa CEO Charles Molapisi.
Together, they cycled about 200 kilometres from Pretoria to Mokopane, and eventually, Ndlovu continued his journey to Bulawayo, covering 865 kilometers with fellow cyclist Pressmore Musundi.
As Ndlovu prepares for the Cape to Cairo expedition, he is seeking further sponsorship to ensure its success.
“Having others join me along the way is not just about protecting each other from the wind, but also about lifting morale. Cycling together makes the journey easier,” he explains.
Ndlovu’s community in South Africa and Zimbabwe has rallied around him, and today, many people know him as the cyclist who has pushed boundaries and inspired others to get on their bikes. His journey isn’t just about sports—it’s about creating a movement that promotes unity, health, and a brighter future for Africa’s youth.
With unwavering determination and a clear vision, Ndlovu is on the verge of making history. His Cape to Cairo adventure is sure to be one for the books, and with support from people and organizations around the world, Ndlovu’s dream of completing this epic journey and setting a Guinness World Record is within reach.
How to Support Meli’s Journey
Ndlovu’s mission is ambitious, but with the right support, it’s achievable. To contribute to his Cape to Cairo journey, sponsorships, donations of bicycles, or even a Garmin tracking device would be greatly appreciated, he says. The world will be watching as Ndlovu and his team pedal their way through Africa, showcasing not just their strength but the power of resilience and community.
