There is a program called Tour d’Afrique that does different world tours which passed through Zambia recently. The trip that came through was cycling from Cairo to Cape Town – 12,000k in 120 days! Their website is www.tourdafrique.com

The group that came through had about 60 people cycling, from about 16 different countries, ages ranging from 18-69 and cycle experience ranging from beginner to those racing. I got to meet them while visiting Emily at her site. Paul, this year’s director, is an RPCV from Zambia and he thought it would be really interesting to incorporate a village stay in their trip. Emily’s site is along the Great East Road which is a significant part of their route. She organized village hosts for those who wanted to camp in the village for the evening and interact with Zambian families; the others camped on the football ground behind the school just outside the village.

We greeted them as they came in from their days ride and helped those who were staying in the village get settled and answer any questions they have. Then in the evening we were able to go to the main campground and socialize with the group, swap stories with them and learn a little more about what they are doing. There were some RPCVs (Returned Peace Corps Volunteers) in the group and it was really nice to talk to them, one even served in the former Zaire when it was an open country.

We got up and saw them off in the morning for yet another day’s ride. Power on cyclists! I really respect what they are doing, and think it must be an awesome way to encounter Africa, but I don’t think I could do it myself.