THE 2026 Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke gets underway on Thursday, with cyclists setting off from Zimplats’ Selous Metallurgical Complex for a three day ride through Zimbabwe’s mineral rich Great Dyke.
The tour, running from 5 to 7 November, brings together the mining industry, corporate partners, communities and cycling enthusiasts, with a programme that combines sport, tourism, wellness and community development.
Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development Dr Caleb Makwiranzou will be the guest of honour at Thursday morning’s official launch.
This year’s programme also includes the launch of The Great Dyke Book: Beyond the Rock on Thursday evening at King Solomon Hotel in Kwekwe.
Written by Minex chairperson Munyaradzi Hwengwere, the book examines the Great Dyke’s geology, mineral resources, history, economic importance, environment and tourism potential.
The launch is expected to draw Government representatives, mining executives, investors, academics and other stakeholders to discuss the role of the 550km geological formation in Zimbabwe’s development and the opportunities it holds.
Tour director Nobuhle Mahlahla said the event had developed beyond its sporting roots, bringing attention to the communities and industries along the Great Dyke.
“The Nedbank Tour de Great Dyke has grown beyond a cycling event into a platform for celebrating the Great Dyke and the people, industries and communities that define it,” she said.
“We want participants and audiences to appreciate that this geological corridor represents much more than mineral extraction. It is about opportunity and supporting talented but underprivileged children for lasting social impact.”
Mahlahla said the book launch would add another dimension to the tour by giving participants and guests an opportunity to explore the history and significance of the landscape through a publication dedicated to the Great Dyke.
“The launch of The Great Dyke Book: Beyond the Rock is one of the major highlights of this year’s tour. It complements the cycling experience by documenting the history, geology, economic significance and wider opportunities of the Great Dyke,” she said.
The tour’s charitable work remains a central part of the initiative, with proceeds from the event and book sales going towards the Gifted Children Foundation.
The foundation has so far assisted 157 talented but underprivileged children, helping them develop their abilities and pursue their ambitions.
“At the heart of this initiative is the belief that we must create opportunities for others. The Gifted Children Foundation gives the tour a meaningful social purpose. We are proud that part of the proceeds will support children whose talents deserve to be nurtured, regardless of their economic circumstances,” Mahlahla said.
Stretching approximately 550km across Zimbabwe, the Great Dyke contains substantial deposits of platinum group metals, chrome, nickel, gold and other minerals. Its mining operations contribute to employment, investment and exports, while supporting economic activity in surrounding communities.
