The City of Johannesburg’s Transport Department, in partnership with the Pedal Power Association (PPA), is set to reinforce its commitment to sustainable urban mobility with the upcoming Safe Cycling Ride, scheduled for Saturday, 22 March 2025 at the picturesque Thokoza Park in Moroka, Soweto.
The event aims to showcase the City’s efforts to promote non-motorised transport and nurture a healthier, greener community.
“This event is more than just a cycling ride; it is a movement aimed at embedding a culture of walking and cycling throughout Johannesburg,” said Councillor Kenny Kunene, Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Transport.
“Our objective is to demonstrate the feasibility of non-motorised transport while encouraging residents to adopt sustainable mobility practices.”
The Safe Cycling Ride is designed for participants of all ages and skill levels, from seasoned cyclists to novices, with a special focus on inclusivity, encouraging women and young people to participate.
In a significant boost for the initiative, Discovery Vitality has pledged sponsorship following a request from MMC Kunene. “Vitality has been a global leader in incentivising behaviour change for over 25 years, combining behavioural economics, clinical science, and financial incentives to encourage healthier lifestyles,” he said.
Discovery Vitality’s sponsorship includes participant souvenirs, the adoption of the Regina Mundi water station, and a Discovery Vitality goodie bag. In addition, Vitality Wellness Champs will collaborate with the Transport Department to provide training and education on cycling as a sustainable mode of transport.
Firoze Bhorat, Chief Marketing Officer at Discovery, said the partnership aligns with Discovery’s mission of promoting active, healthy living. “By encouraging cycling as a form of transport, we contribute to creating healthier communities and a more sustainable future,” Bhorat said.
“We are proud to support this initiative and look forward to further collaboration with the City of Johannesburg.”
The Safe Cycling Ride will begin at 8am and conclude at 1pm, covering a carefully curated route through some of Soweto’s most historic and culturally significant landmarks. Participants will traverse key locations such as the Orlando Towers, Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum, Jabulani Mall, and Regina Mundi Catholic Church, a site deeply rooted in South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle.
The event also highlights the economic potential of cycling. MMC Kunene highlighted that cycling contributes to local economies by supporting bike shops, cafés, and small businesses along popular routes.
“By encouraging cycling, we promote Bikenomics as a viable economic driver, while simultaneously reducing traffic congestion and the city’s carbon footprint,” he added.
The City of Johannesburg continues to seek additional sponsors to donate bicycles to community members, ensuring cycling becomes a lasting part of residents’ daily lives.
“We hope Discovery Vitality’s involvement will inspire other corporate partners to join this initiative,” Kunene said.
The Safe Cycling Ride is organised in collaboration with the Pedal Power Association, the Road Accident Fund, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, Region D Citizen Relationship and Urban Management (CRUM), and local cycling clubs. With approximately 200 cyclists expected to participate, the initiative brings together diverse communities to champion sustainable transport solutions.
Residents attending as spectators can take advantage of free Wi-Fi at the event, enabling them to share their experiences across social media platforms.
Written by Robin Van Der Byl