In a significant step for public health advocacy through sport, the Ghana Cycling Federation (GCF) has officially endorsed Pedal for Parkinson’s 2026, a national community cycling event scheduled to take place on World Parkinson’s Day – Saturday, 11th April 2026 – at the University of Ghana Sports Grounds.
The endorsement follows a formal proposal from the Anidaso Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, in partnership with lead mobility partner Yenko Mobility, seeking the Federation’s technical expertise and strategic guidance.
Shaaban Mohammed, General Secretary of the Ghana Cycling Federation, confirmed the organisation’s full backing.
“On behalf of the Ghana Cycling Federation, I am proud to lend our full support to Pedal for Parkinson’s 2026,” Mohammed said. “This event represents everything we believe in at the Federation – the power of cycling to transform lives, build community, and promote health.”
A Partnership for Change
The Anidaso Parkinson’s Disease Foundation – whose name means “hope” in Twi – was established to address a rapidly growing but often overlooked health crisis. Parkinson’s disease is the fastest‑growing neurological disorder worldwide, and Ghana is no exception. Yet awareness remains critically low, and resources for affected families are limited.
Under the partnership, the GCF will formally recognise Pedal for Parkinson’s 2026 as a community cycling event aligned with national sports development goals. The Federation will also review and certify the proposed route for safety, promote the event to registered clubs and cycling enthusiasts nationwide, and provide a representative to speak at the opening ceremony.
More Than a Ride
Designed to be inclusive and accessible, Pedal for Parkinson’s 2026 offers three ways to participate:
· 25km Challenge – for experienced riders seeking purpose and endurance.
· 5km Family Fun Ride – a gentle route for families and beginners.
· Virtual Ride Challenge – open to all Ghanaians from 5th to 11th April 2026, allowing participants to cycle anywhere – a neighbourhood, park or gym – and upload results using the hashtag #AnidasoPD.
The event grounds at the University of Ghana will feature wellness zones, hydration stations, games, food and entertainment.
‘Cycling as Medicine’
Among the most compelling voices behind the initiative is Kojo Arthur, a Ghanaian Parkinson’s warrior and dedicated cyclist.
“When I was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s, I thought my active days were over,” Arthur said. “At first, just 10 minutes around my street. Now, I ride 25km and feel stronger than I have in years. My balance has improved. My mood has lifted. Most importantly, I’ve found a community that understands. If I can do it, so can you.”
His testimony underscores five key benefits of cycling for people with Parkinson’s: improved balance and mobility, natural dopamine boost, reduced stress and anxiety, low‑impact safety for joints, and the building of community support.
Growing Coalition of Support
Pedal for Parkinson’s 2026 has already attracted a distinguished circle of partners, including Yenko Mobility (Lead Mobility Partner), which is offering free e‑bikes for participants, as well as Brainwaves, the Neurology Society of Ghana, and Roche.
Their collective involvement signals a growing recognition that cycling is not merely a sport but a powerful public health intervention.
The Anidaso Foundation is Ghana’s leading non‑profit organisation dedicated to Parkinson’s disease awareness, patient support and advocacy. Through community‑driven events and strategic partnerships, the foundation works to ensure that no Ghanaian faces Parkinson’s without hope.
“Together, we pedal for purpose. Together, we ride for Parkinson’s,” the foundation said in a statement.
