The sun was just starting to rise on March 4, 2022, in the city of Ho, and the streets were already buzzing with excitement. The occasion was the Ho Bike Tour, a cycling event that was part of the celebrations for Ghana’s 66th Independence Day.
Cycling enthusiasts from all over the country had gathered to take part in the 24km tour, which would take them through the beautiful landscapes of the capital city of the Volta region. The event had been organized by Node Eight in partnership with the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, the Association of Ghana Industries Volta, Oti, and Eastern Region, and the Ho Cycling Club.
The route of the Ho Bike Tour 2023 was a beautiful scenic ride that showcased the best of Ho’s natural beauty. In anticipation of their journey, the riders gathered at the Ho Residency and danced to music, adding to the lively atmosphere. From there, the riders made their way through the bustling streets of Ho, passing by local markets and shops. Throughout the journey, riders were encouraged to capture the stunning sights and sounds of Ho and share them on social media using the hashtag #HoBikeTour, #VisitVolta and #Volta2023. The energy was palpable as participants and onlookers cheered on the riders. The 24km route concluded at Jubilee Park.
Among the distinguished guests present at the event were Hon. Dr Archibald Yao Letsa, the Regional Minister for Volta, Hon. Divine Richard Komla Bosson, the Chief Executive of Ho Municipal, Mr Lord Commey, Chairman of the 66th Anniversary Planning Committee, The Reverend Isaac Adza Tettey, the Planning Officer of Volta Region, the Public Relations Officer of VRCC, the Chief Director of VRCC, Mr Brian Dzidefo, Co-Founder of Node Eight, Mr Courage Komla Asase, Managing Director of Node Eight, and Miss Nadiet Edem Azanu, Regional Manager of Max International.
At the commencement of the event, Hon Dr Archibald Yao Letsa, the Volta Regional Minister, delivered an impactful address, commending Node Eight and its partners for their tireless work in showcasing Ho as an attractive destination for both tourists and cyclists. “We are very grateful because the Ho Bike Tour adds to what we are doing to promote the Volta region as a tourism destination, and I am happy because the organizers found it fit to organize this event” – He added.
Alfred Godwin Adjabeng, Founder of School Farms and Country Manager for C-Quest Capital was equally impressed saying “I am a first-time cycler, and I am glad that the Ho Bike Tour had a place for me. It wasn’t just for professionals; I’m happy to cycle about the city, and I welcome everyone to join, let’s make this bigger. Together, let’s explore the Oxygen City.”
Ho Bike Tour was not only thrilling and entertaining for bikers and everyone who attended; it also had many positive effects on Ho. Firstly, it promoted eco-tourism, encouraging visitors to explore the city on two wheels rather than by car, reducing carbon emissions and promoting a healthier lifestyle. By prioritizing environmental sustainability through events like the Ho Bike Tour, Ho–Volta region is working towards creating a more sustainable city that benefits both current and future generations.
Brian Dzidefo Dzansi, the co-founder of Node Eight “The Ho Bike Tour has as one of its goals promoting biking as a sustainable mode of transportation. Green Innovation is one of the areas we concentrate on as an innovation hub, and bicycling is one of the green technologies we wish to promote and encourage in our community as a green mode of transportation.”
Additionally, the event showcased the beauty and diversity of Ho, highlighting its potential as a tourism destination and attracting further investment into the city. The community also benefited from the event, with participants and volunteers coming together to promote a shared love of cycling and a sense of community spirit.
The community also benefited from the event, with participants and volunteers coming together to promote a shared love of cycling and a sense of community spirit. Overall, the Ho Bike Tour brought a range of social, economic, and environmental benefits to the city of Ho, making it a truly worthwhile event for all involved.
The event was sponsored by a host of organizations, including Max International, Property General Consult, Ultimate water, Rack Water, DS Enterprise, Rotaract Club of Ho, Global FM, Gladiators cycling club, Dreamline Solutions, FEDEK Ventured limited, Ho Sentinel LEO Club, and Lucozade Energy drink. The support of these organizations made the event a huge success.
The event was graced by cycling enthusiasts from different parts of the country. Among the clubs present were the Ho Cycling Club, Peki Pedals Cycling Club, and Gladiators Cycling Club from Accra. These clubs brought a sense of camaraderie and healthy competition to the event.
In conclusion, the Ho Bike Tour was a resounding success, and it showcased the best of Ghana’s hospitality, culture, and scenic beauty. The event would not have been possible without the support of the organizers, sponsors, special guests, cycling clubs, and participants. As we celebrate Ghana’s 66th Independence Day, we look forward to more exciting events like the Ho Bike Tour in the future.