On September 20, 2026, cyclists in Kinshasa gathered to pay tribute to Miguel Masaisai, who died in a tragic accident in the Republic of Congo on September 18, 2026. The memorial ride brought together about twenty cyclists of different generations, including professionals and amateurs. The cyclists rode from the Palais du Peuple, through various streets in Kinshasa, and ended at the Stade des Martyrs.
The cyclists, who rode with great emotion, chanted "Pedals for peace, Hommage à Miguel Masaisai!" at the start and finish of the ride. For many participants, Miguel was more than just a sports enthusiast. One participant described Miguel as a good brother and a great man who had brought hope to the world of cycling.
Awolo Jonathan, a cycling coach, praised Miguel's message of peace and courage. Jonathan stated that Miguel's message would live on despite his passing, and that he had shown that young people could make a difference. At just 23 years old, Miguel had proven that he could bring about change through his cycling project "Pedals for peace".
The memorial ride was not only a tribute to Miguel but also an opportunity to call on the Congolese authorities to recognize his contributions. Abrham Luakabuanga, president of the Entente de cyclisme de la Lukunga, urged the government to honor Miguel with a national title, such as Commandeur or Chevalier de l'Ordre national du Léopard, for his exceptional achievements.
Luakabuanga emphasized that Miguel's accomplishments deserved national recognition, having brought hope not only to the people of Goma and the East of the Democratic Republic of the Congo but also to the entire country and Africa. The cyclists hoped that their tribute would inspire future generations to follow in Miguel's footsteps.
A similar symbolic ride took place in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, where Miguel originated. The ride was attended by his former colleagues, friends, and family, who expressed their grief and pain at his loss. Miguel had been on a mission to cycle from Goma to Rabat, Morocco, to spread a message of peace.
The cyclists in Kinshasa and Goma demonstrated that Miguel's legacy would live on, inspiring others to work towards peace and positive change. The tributes highlighted the impact Miguel had on his community and the country, and his story will be remembered for years to come.
Key points
- Cyclists in Kinshasa held a memorial ride to honor Miguel Masaisai, who died in an accident in the Republic of Congo on September 18, 2026.
- The ride was an opportunity for cyclists to pay tribute to Miguel and call on the authorities to recognize his contributions to the country.
- Miguel's legacy will continue to inspire future generations to work towards peace and positive change.
