EU Velocity Cycling Tour reaches halfway mark as Ghana celebrates historic sustainability ride

The European Union’s ambitious eight-day Velocity Cycling Tour for Sustainability has passed the halfway mark, with participants arriving in Kumasi on Wednesday after completing 460 kilometers of their 800-kilometer journey from Tamale to Accra.

The tour, which runs from 12th to 18th April 2026, commemorates 50 years of the European Union and has drawn praise from the Ghana Cycling Federation (GCF), whose Secretary General, Mr. Shaaban Mohammed, described the initiative as “historic and transformative.”

“History is being made as European Union Ambassadors reach Kumasi, the fourth stop on this remarkable journey,” Mr. Mohammed said. “This extraordinary journey continues to demonstrate endurance, unity, self-discipline, and shared commitment, while highlighting Ghana’s growing importance as a gateway to Africa.”

According to the GCF, the successful execution of the tour reinforces Ghana’s position as a beacon of peace, stability, and democratic consistency on the continent. Mr. Mohammed noted that cycling is gaining strong momentum in Ghana, driven by the country’s democratic environment which supports sports development and international collaboration.

Regional Support

On Day Four of the seven-day ride, the delegation was seen off in Sunyani by Bono Regional Minister, Hon. Joseph Addae Akwaboa, and warmly received in Kumasi by Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene. Participants described the journey as challenging but rewarding, with every kilometer contributing to a larger purpose.

Sustainability Legacy

Beyond the sporting achievement, the tour is leaving a tangible environmental legacy. Mr. Mohammed disclosed that over 1,000 trees are being planted along the route as part of the sustainability agenda.

“The seven-day tour is already leaving a lasting legacy, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s growing recreational sports landscape and supporting the vision of the Ministry of Sports and Recreation,” he said.

Upcoming Stages

The tour continues with the following schedule:

· Thursday, 16th April 2026: Kumasi to Nkawkaw
· Friday, 17th April 2026: Nkawkaw to Aburi
· Saturday, 18th April 2026: Grand Finale from Aburi to Accra, culminating in a ceremonial event at the Netherlands Embassy at 9:30 AM

Call to Action

Mr. Mohammed used the occasion to challenge Ghanaian leaders and citizens to embrace cycling as a means of transportation, citing benefits including a greener environment, reduced traffic congestion, improved healthy lifestyles, and self-discipline.

Appreciation

The Ghana Cycling Federation extended special appreciation to the participating diplomatic missions and partners, including the German Embassy Accra, Embassy of the Netherlands in Ghana, Embassy of the Czech Republic in Accra, French Embassy in Ghana, Embassy of Denmark in Ghana, Embassy of Spain in Ghana, Embassy of Hungary (Accra), Italy in Ghana and Togo, High Commission of Malta in Ghana, EU International Partnerships, and the European External Action Service (EEAS).

The GCF also expressed gratitude to Natasha Mann-Dedey, Co-Founder, Operations and Programmes Lead at Jambo Spaces, for her contribution and support.

“The ambassadors and cyclists involved in this historic journey deserve national recognition and applause for their commitment and inspiration,” Mr. Mohammed said. “Together, we ride towards a sustainable and united future.”