Limpopo cop champions anti-drug campaign on epic ride
Limpopo police officer Timothy Ramadwa cycles 4 546km across nine provinces to inspire learners and spread an anti-drug message.
LIMPOPO – The fight against drug and substance abuse has been taken to another level after cyclist and K9 Makhado police member, Timothy Ramadwa from Ramantsha, embarked on an awareness campaign from Cape Town to the Musina Beitbridge Border Post, aimed at reaching learners.
Ramadwa achieved a significant milestone in his life by cycling all the way from the Western Cape to Musina, covering a distance of 4 546km across nine provinces. The 21-day journey began on August 7 and concluded on August 28.
His long-distance cycling efforts began in 2023 when he rode from Pretoria to Louis Trichardt, covering 380km, followed by last year’s 1 924km ride from Cape Town to Musina. “I started the Sinthumule/Kutama Cycling Club with my children, and I want to pursue my vision of keeping young people off the streets,” he said.
Ramadwa told CV that his initiative is crucial because many young people are exposed to drugs at an early age. “It is essential to reflect on the devastation that drugs and illicit trafficking continue to cause in our communities. Drugs and alcohol are mercilessly ravaging the future of our youth, with no limitations or boundaries,” he said.
According to him, substance abuse fuels crime, poverty and health issues.
Despite the demands of his role in the SAPS canine unit, Ramadwa maintains a specially formulated training programme. In addition, he offers life skills training and visits schools to give motivational talks. Here, he focuses on discipline and encourages learners to remain focused on their education.
“It is better to inspire younger children, to coach and steer their passion in the right direction,” he said.
“Cycling takes our kids off the street and provides them with a healthy lifestyle. As a young boy, I enjoyed riding my bike, so I already had good cycling skills when I took up this sport. I don’t think I would otherwise have had the opportunities I got in my life.”
Ramadwa said he is proud to have fulfilled his dream of successfully completing the journey, using his passion for cycling to make a meaningful difference in the fight against drug abuse.
