Pedaling Integration: GACS Team Honored by Ministry of EAC Affairs, Uganda

 Bishop Samuel 

This afternoon, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of East African Community Affairs, Uganda, Mrs. Edith Mwanje, hosted the leadership of the Great African Cycling Safari (GACS) at Kingdom Kampala House to celebrate the successful conclusion of the 7th Edition of the Great African Cycling Safari 2025. 

The meeting recognized Mr. Johnbosco Balongom, the team and tour leader, along with the GACS accountant. The Permanent Secretary congratulated them for spearheading a remarkable journey that united 35 cyclists and a dedicated service crew drawn from across the EAC partner states. 

Flagged off on 1st August 2025 in Kampala, Uganda, this year’s edition followed a 55-day, 6,470km journey across the East African region, traversing Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, and concluding back in Uganda via Suwam OSBP. 

Themed “Exploring the effects of Climate Change on Food Security and Peace in the East African Region”, the 2025 edition symbolized the power of unity, mobility, and grassroots engagement in advancing the EAC integration agenda. 

Mrs. Mwanje, on behalf of the Ministry, presented a cash reward to the GACS team and handed them official materials to deepen their understanding of Uganda’s coordination role within the EAC Secretariat. She assured the team of continued support and encouraged them to carry on with courage and commitment. 

“Keep doing what you’re doing, with courage and commitment. You have our full support,” she affirmed. 

The Great African Cycling Safari continues to prove that integration isn’t just policy, it’s a movement. And with every edition, it brings the East African dream closer to reality.  

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