Zimbabwe couple faces backlash over SA flag selection on 9 000km Africa adventure

By The South African

Zimbabwean couple Thandolwenkosi Tshuma and Vusumuzi Mkandhla have set out on the adventure of a lifetime, cycling across Africa with a dream to inspire fellow Africans.

Starting their journey in South Africa in April 2024, the couple has to date pedaled over 9 000km, traversing 11 countries and capturing the imaginations of supporters across the continent.

However, their choice to carry a South African flag has sparked unexpected controversy back home.

Thandolwenkosi and Vusumuzi, both passionate about fitness and cultural exploration, embarked on their journey in Soweto with a shared mission: to experience the rich histories, landscapes, and people of Africa.

But as their adventure gained attention, questions emerged over their decision to wave a South African flag instead of their Zimbabwean one – a choice that some Zimbabweans argue doesn’t fully represent their roots.

Why the South African flag?

“We really wanted the Zimbabwean flag,” Thandolwenkosi told The South African.

“But we couldn’t find it in Uganda. We searched for two days, but they only had flags from neighbouring countries, and the South African flag happened to be there.”

Thandolwenkosi explained that their intention was not to abandon their Zimbabwean identity, but to acknowledge the journey’s starting point.

“The main reason for carrying the South African flag is to show that we started cycling from South Africa to Kenya. It’s not that we only have one flag – we also have the Kenyan flag.”

Undeterred by criticism, she added, “In a way, I feel so special. I am proud to be the first Zimbabwean woman to cycle this long journey. Those who are criticising us only make me stronger. I am a proud African, and I can wave any African flag.”

Backlash from back home

Despite their goal to inspire, the couple has faced harsh criticism from some Zimbabweans who claim they lack pride in their home country.

Yet, Thandolwenkosi sees the experience as an opportunity to embrace Africa’s diversity.

Traveling across the continent has taught them about different cultures and people.

“There are so many unique characters and traditions across Africa,” she said.

Thandolwenkosi’s dream of traveling the world started during the 2020 lockdown, and since then, her vision has grown into this remarkable journey.

She acknowledged that cycling across Africa is far from easy, mentioning struggles with saddle pains, steep terrains, and even managing her menstrual cycle while on the road.

“At one point, I even considered getting an injection to stop my periods,” she admitted.

The couple is expected to arrive in Nairobi on 10 November, marking the completion of the first leg of their tour.

In January, they plan to start the next season of their adventure.

Initially, they planned to begin in North Africa, exploring new terrain in Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, and beyond.

However, the couple has since cancelled the northern route and decided to return along a different path.