Accra: The Ghana Cycling Federation (GCF) has donated a bicycle to long-distance rider Ibrahim Jazil Abanga following his five-day cycling expedition from Tamale to Accra, held to commemorate Ghana's 69th Independence Day.
According to Ghana News Agency, Abanga embarked on the journey to promote national unity, youth empowerment, and support for technical and vocational education. The GCF, in collaboration with the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Solidarity Programme, made this gesture to foster grassroots cycling development and talent identification in northern Ghana.
GCF General Secretary, Mr. Shaaban Mohammed, expressed the federation's admiration for Abanga's commitment and vision to use cycling as a developmental tool. "On behalf of the Federation President, we are donating this bicycle to Ibrahim Jazil Abanga. He rode from Tamale to Accra to celebrate our 69th anniversary of independence, and we were deeply touched by his effort," Mohammed stated.
He further explained that Abanga's original bicycle experienced mechanical issues, but the federation recognized his ambition to promote cycling in northern regions and identify new talent. Mr. Mohammed lauded Abanga's resilience during the 600-700 km journey, expressing hope that his example would inspire more youth participation in the sport as Ghana approaches its 70th Independence anniversary.
Abanga, who turned to cycling after a knee injury ended his football career, described the expedition as part of a larger mission advocating for unity and educational reform. His initial long-distance ride from Tamale to Yendi motivated him to attempt greater challenges, culminating in this recent expedition.
Abanga noted that discussions with the GCF aligned with his aspirations to leverage cycling for community outreach and youth mobilization. "I rode from Tamale to Accra to raise awareness for the 69th Independence Day, focusing on national unity, youth empowerment and promoting technical and vocational education," he stated. "This act caught the attention of the Federation, and after sharing my future plans, they offered to donate this bicycle to support my drive to transform Ghana through adventure."
He expressed gratitude to the UCI Solidarity Programme, GCF leadership, and the public for their support. Abanga also expressed his hope that more bicycles would be provided to support environmental sustainability and reduce fuel consumption.