PFF unveils inaugural Tour de Mzuzu Bicycle Race
The People First Foundation (PFF) has unveiled the inaugural Tour de Mzuzu Bicycle Race scheduled to take place on July 26.
The event, planned to be used as a fundraising initiative, aims to raise MK61.5 million for the construction of Umoza Village for orphans at Sonda Township in Mzuzu.
Cyclists from across Malawi and beyond are expected to compete in what promises to be a vibrant and competitive race.
Professional and international cyclists, that is both males and females, will race from Chintheche to Mzuzu Stadium, locals will compete from Nkhatabay to Mzuzu Stadium, and those cycling for fun will start from Mzuzu roadblock to Mzuzu Stadium.
Speaking during a press briefing at Grand Palace Hotel on Monday, PFF Executive Director Lumbani Kaunda, described the race as more than just a sporting event, emphasizing its role in promoting health, uniting communities, and supporting vulnerable groups.
“This marks a major milestone for us where vision meets action. Through Tour de Mzuzu, we are not only encouraging wellness through sport but also raising awareness and resources for social programs that impact lives,” Kaunda said.
He added; “With the money we anticipate to raise, our target is to complete the Umoza Village project, which will include a free primary school for underprivileged children in the area.”
Kaunda also announced the support from Grand Palace Hotel for one of the race categories.
“We are grateful to Grand Palace Hotel for their generous contribution and for believing in our mission. We are calling on more businesses and individuals to support the initiative, so we can be able to meet our target,” Kaunda said.
In his remarks, Grand Palace Hotel General Manager Sam Phiri said they have partnered with PFF because the initiative the organization is introducing is unique and a good thing.
“It is a sporting activity involving cyclists, which is a very popular competition in the world. Now that they have come with it to Malawi and Mzuzu, we felt that we should be with them and help them,” Phiri said.
“They are also doing this to fundraise for their organization, which does a lot for the less privileged. So, we felt like lets come in as they start this. We always want to be the first ones to help in good things that are happening,” he added.
Phiri further described the partnership as a win for both parties saying it will help to boost their business.
“Cycling is part of sports tourism. You see these people are bringing in international cyclists, which is part of tourism and we are in that industry, so obviously it is our territory. We believe that some of the international tourists will stay in our hotel, so it is part of our business,” Phiri said.
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