Shaaban Mohammed, General Secretary of the Ghana Cycling Federation (GCF), has officially thrown the Federation’s full weight behind Pedal for Parkinson’s 2026, a national community cycling event scheduled for World Parkinson’s Day, Saturday, 11th April 2026, at the University of Georgia Sports Grounds, Accra.
In a formal address confirming the endorsement, Mohammed framed the partnership as a natural alignment of values. “On behalf of the Ghana Cycling Federation, I am proud to lend our full support to Pedal for Parkinson’s 2026,” he said. “This event represents everything we believe in at the Federation: the power of cycling to transform lives, build community, and promote health.”
The endorsement followed a formal proposal submitted by the Anidaso Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, in collaboration with lead mobility partner Yenko Mobility, seeking the GCF’s technical partnership and strategic guidance. Under Mohammed’s leadership, the Federation has pledged to offer its expertise in four key areas: formally recognizing Pedal for Parkinson’s 2026 as a community cycling event aligned with national sports development goals; reviewing and certifying the proposed route for safety and suitability; promoting the event to registered clubs, athletes, and cycling enthusiasts nationwide; and providing a representative to participate in the opening ceremony, affirming the collaborative effort for community health.
A Partnership Rooted in Purpose
The Anidaso Parkinson’s Disease Foundation—whose name embodies “hope” in Twi—was established to address a silent and growing 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.
The partnership with the GCF, championed by Mohammed and his team, was built on a shared vision: to use the bicycle not only as a tool for sport but as a vehicle for healing, unity, and social change.
More Than a Ride: What to Expect on 11th April 2026
Pedal for Parkinson’s 2026 is designed to be inclusive, accessible, and impactful. Participants of all ages and skill levels may choose from:
· 25km Challenge – For experienced riders seeking purpose and endurance.
· 5km Family Fun Ride – A gentle, joyful route for families and beginners.
· Virtual Ride Challenge – Open to all Ghanaians from 5th to 11th April 2026. Participants may cycle anywhere—their neighborhood, a park, or a gym—upload results, and share photos using the hashtag #AnidasoPD.
The event grounds at the University of Ghana will also feature wellness zones, hydration stations, games, food, and entertainment, promising an unforgettable day for riders and supporters.
A Personal Testimony: Cycling as Medicine
Among the most powerful voices behind the event is Kojo Arthur, a Ghanaian Parkinson’s warrior and dedicated cyclist. His testimony captures the heart of the initiative:
“When I was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s, I thought my active days were over. 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 story proves the five key reasons to cycle for Parkinson’s: improved balance and mobility, boosted brain chemistry through natural dopamine increase, reduced stress and anxiety, low-impact safety for joints, and the building of community support.
A 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; Brainwaves; the Neurology Society of Ghana; and Roche. Their collective involvement signals a growing recognition, echoed by Shaaban Mohammed and the GCF, that cycling is not merely a sport but a powerful public health intervention.
Anidaso Foundation is Ghana’s leading non-profit organization 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.
