Honouring Nyerere’s legacy in style

A FEW days ago, Stanbic Bank Tanzania and Vodacom Tanzania PLC embarked on a transformative journey to turn Tanzanian schools green and improve learning environments, leveraging the Vodacom Twende Butiama Cycling Tour. This initiative aims to make a significant impact on the environment and the lives of many Tanzanians.

For about two weeks, passionate cyclists participating in the Twende Butiama Tour will cover an impressive 1,846 kilometres from Dar es Salaam to Butiama, traversing 12 regions. Their mission is to improve the lives of over 100,000 people along the way.

This initiative honours the legacy of the late Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, focusing on combating ignorance, poverty and disease through cycling—a sport cherished by Nyerere.

Among the key initiatives of the tour are the planting of 50,000 trees in 23 schools and public spaces, and the donation of over 1,000 desks.

Additionally, medical camps will be set up in four regions, offering health check-ups with specialised medical doctors. These camps will provide communities with access to consultations, screenings, treatments and referrals for patients needing special medical attention.

ALSO READ: Twende Butiama’ cycling caravan approaches Mwanza

During the flag-off event, Gabriel Landa, Founder of this cycling initiative expressed the significance of participating in this annual event.

“We are doing this not only to commemorate the late Father of the Nation but also to serve as an important opportunity for physical exercise and staying fit. This tour is about more than just cycling; it’s about giving back and honouring Mwalimu’s commitment to education, health and the environment. With every kilometre pedaled, we inspire action for a better Tanzania,” Landa said.

Stanbic Bank’s Sustainability Manager, Annette Nkini, highlighted their commitment to the tour, stating, “At Stanbic, we support initiatives that drive sustainable development. This is why we decided to join hands with Vodacom Tanzania on the Twende Butiama initiative.”

She emphasised that this partnership reflects Stanbic’s dedication to advancing education, health and climate action, which are central to their Corporate Social Investment and Sustainability strategies. Moreover, Stanbic Bank is extending financial literacy education to students in benefitting schools.

Vodacom Tanzania Foundation Director, Zuweina Farah, who also serves as the Director of External Affairs at Vodacom Tanzania PLC, shared her enthusiasm for the initiative. “At Vodacom, we believe in creating lasting social impact by empowering people and protecting the planet. Last year, our partnership resulted in planting 6,000 trees, donating 610 desks to 13 schools and providing free medical care to over 3,200 people. With more support this year, I’m confident we can achieve even greater impact,” Farah said. She added that on top of Stanbic Bank this year’s event has received support from several stakeholders, including Youth of the United Nations Association (YUNA), Kuunda, ABC Impact, DarVelo Cycling and Afroil.

At one of the school handover events in the Coast Region, YUNA’s Chairperson, Ms. Suzan Sylvester, spoke about the importance of the tour in honoring Mwalimu Nyerere’s legacy. “Mwalimu was a patriot and highly disciplined in matters of the nation. His commitment to health, education and social equality remains a guiding light for our country. This tour not only honours his memory but also keeps his dreams alive by continuing his mission of fighting ignorance, poverty and disease,” she said. Ms. Sylvester added that YUNA joined hands with corporates because their objectives align with health, education and environmental initiatives, which directly impact the community.

As part of this year’s Twende Butiama Cycling Tour, YUNA has donated 5,000 trees to schools, emphasising their advocacy for the environment. “We recognise the critical role of youths in addressing climate change and environmental issues, hence we decided to help by donating the trees,” Ms. Sylvester concluded.

This collaborative effort by Stanbic Bank, Vodacom Tanzania and other stakeholders showcases a powerful commitment to sustainable development, honouring the legacy of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and making a tangible difference in the lives of Tanzanians.