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Ride For Unity Tour: A Journey of Hope and Connection in Rwanda

From August 17 to 24, 2025, the inaugural national tour of Ride For Unity is set to take place across the picturesque landscapes of Rwanda. This event, made possible through a partnership with the Rwandan Ministry of Sports (MINISPORTS) and the Rwandan Cycling Federation (Ferwacy), aims to bring together influential athletes, including world champions and Guinness World Record holders. The primary goal of the tour, aptly titled 'Ride to Reconnection', is to foster global unity, drive grassroots change, and showcase Rwanda's remarkable narrative of healing and resilience after adversity.

The Purposeful Journey

The tour, featuring twenty participants from diverse backgrounds, will traverse the scenic routes of Rwanda, combining the thrill of cycling with a mission that emphasizes social responsibility and community engagement. As Daniel Bernard, co-founder of RFU, aptly puts it, "This ride transcends just cycling; it’s a global act of connection. The journey through Rwanda demonstrates the possibilities that arise when a nation commits to unity and healing. With the support of MINISPORTS and Ferwacy, we are building something sustainable and impactful here."

Throughout the week, participants will visit significant locations, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where they will honor the lives lost and the nation's transformative journey. They will also engage in conservation efforts with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, glean insights from local coffee farmers at the Kahawa plantation, and promote inclusivity through activities with Rwanda Action in Kamembe.

In Nyanza, the Ride For Unity team is set to organize sports activities for over 1,000 children in collaboration with the Ishami Foundation. These interactions will be supplemented by storytelling sessions with youth from the Agahozo Shalom Youth Village. The touring team will also immerse themselves in conservation initiatives at the Akagera National Park, focusing on the rehabilitation of rhinoceros populations, before concluding their journey back in Kigali.

Celebrating Unity Through Sport

“Rwanda is proud to host the Ride For Unity initiative and to support its inspiring mission,” remarked Sports Minister Nelly Mukazayire. “Cycling is deeply rooted in our culture, and this tour celebrates the unifying power of sports. We invite the world to explore the spirit, vibrant culture, and breathtaking roads of Rwanda as we gear up for the UCI Road World Championships 2025.”

Leah Tedrow, co-founder of RFU, added, “This tour aims to listen, learn, and illustrate how unity can be rebuilt through community engagement. Rwanda's story fuels our mission of reconnection, and we are excited to announce ambitious long-term plans to push this vision forward, both in Rwanda and globally.”

The public is encouraged to join the Ride For Unity team for the car-free day kickoff in Kigali on August 17, starting at the BK Arena and culminating at the Zaria Court on August 24, which will feature a community celebration.

About Ride For Unity

Ride For Unity is a global nonprofit movement leveraging the power of sport to rebuild trust, strengthen communities, and inspire unity through action. By merging athleticism with social advocacy, RFU seeks to forge connections that transcend borders.

This extraordinary journey is not just about cycling but reflects a deeper commitment to healing, community engagement, and the relentless spirit inherent in us all. Join us as we cycle towards a brighter tomorrow in Rwanda!