Zimbabwe couple faces backlash over SA flag choice on Africa journey

Zimbabwean couple Thandolwenkosi Tshuma and Vusumuzi Mkandhla have set out on the journey of a lifetime, biking throughout Africa with a dream to encourage fellow Africans.

Beginning their journey in South Africa in April 2024, the couple has to this point pedaled over 9 000km, traversing 11 international locations and capturing the imaginations of supporters throughout the continent.

Nonetheless, their selection to hold a South African flag has sparked sudden controversy again dwelling.

Zimbabwe couple waves the South African flag

Thandolwenkosi and Vusumuzi, each obsessed with health and cultural exploration, launched into their journey in Soweto with a shared mission: to expertise the wealthy histories, landscapes, and folks of Africa.

However as their journey gained consideration, questions emerged over their determination to wave a South African flag as a substitute of their Zimbabwean one – a selection that some Zimbabweans argue doesn’t absolutely signify their roots.

Why the South African flag?

“We actually needed the Zimbabwean flag,” Thandolwenkosi instructed The South African.

“However we couldn’t discover it in Uganda. We searched for 2 days, however they solely had flags from neighbouring international locations, and the South African flag occurred to be there.”

Thandolwenkosi defined that their intention was to not abandon their Zimbabwean identification, however to acknowledge the journey’s start line.

“The principle cause for carrying the South African flag is to point out that we began biking from South Africa to Kenya. It’s not that we solely have one flag – we even have the Kenyan flag.”

Undeterred by criticism, she added, “In a means, I really feel so particular. I’m proud to be the primary Zimbabwean lady to cycle this lengthy journey. Those that are criticising us solely make me stronger. I’m a proud African, and I can wave any African flag.”