05/28/2026
Government to reward One Yeye after cycling to Cape Town
GOVERNMENT has pledged to reward cyclist, James Falanga, popularly known as One Yeye International, following his historic 37-day cycling expedition from Lusaka to Cape Town.
Permanently Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Kangwa Chileshe described Falanga as a patriot whose achievement has elevated Zambia’s profile on the continent.
Chileshe said Falanga’s journey embodied President Hakainde Hichilema’s policy that all sporting disciplines deserve equal recognition and support.
Before embarking on his continental ride, Falanga cycled across Zambia, attending traditional ceremonies and promoting cultural heritage, domestic tourism, and trade.
On April 15, 2026, he set off from Lusaka on an ambitious journey through Zambia, Botswana, and South Africa before successfully reaching Cape Town.
The expedition raised awareness about Southern Africa’s tourism potential, championing the free movement of people across borders, and amplified calls for a borderless, visa-free Africa.
"This expedition is more than a personal victory, as it provides a blueprint for sports development in Zambia," Chileshe said.
Chileshe further directed officials in the Ministry to document Falanga’s training methods, nutrition plans, recovery strategies, and cross-border logistics experience to help develop future endurance athletes.
He said that there is need for inclusivity in sports, calling for greater support for girls, persons with disabilities, rural athletes, and older citizens seeking to remain active.
"Government will reward Falanga for bringing honour to the nation, comparing the cyclist’s achievement to those of national teams and medal-winning athletes who receive incentives for outstanding performances," he said.
Chileshe also commended Falanga for undertaking the journey out of passion rather than financial gain, saying his story should inspire young people to pursue their dreams with dedication and discipline.
He added that the Ministry would formally present Falanga’s achievement to President Hichilema following an invitation to State House, where the cyclist’s contribution to national pride is expected to be recognised.
Meanwhile, Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana hailed the cyclist for demonstrating determination, discipline and hard work, saying his journey was inspired by the resilience shown by President Hakainde Hichilema over many years in opposition.
He said that the athlete drew motivation from President Hichilema’s political journey, which saw him persevere through nearly two decades of electoral defeats before eventually becoming Head of State.
"Despite numerous setbacks, President Hichilema remains focused, resilient, and committed to his vision, qualities that inspired Falanga to keep pushing forward during his own challenging journey," he said.
Kawana has since urged young people across the country to emulate Falanga’s example of hard work and perseverance, describing him as a role model whose success was achieved through honest effort rather than shortcuts.
The cyclist was given a welcome befitting of a champion upon his return from South Africa yesterday.
By Sanfrossa Mberi
Kalemba May 28, 2026
