Jordanian long-distance walker Saddam Alaya has arrived in Rwanda as part of his journey to cover 23,000 kilometers across 18 countries. Alaya started his trek on January 1, 2026, from Cape Agulhas in South Africa and plans to conclude it in Magadan, Russia. His journey aims to promote peace, education, and good relations among people from different countries. Alaya's trip is expected to take between two and two-and-a-half years, depending on factors such as border crossings, weather conditions, and visa requirements.
Alaya's journey will take him through three continents, including Africa, Europe, and Asia. He has already traversed South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, Burundi, and Rwanda. In Rwanda, he plans to spend around 17 days before continuing his journey to Uganda, South Sudan, Sudan, Egypt, Palestine, Jordan, Syria, Turkey, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and finally, Russia. Alaya's initiative, "Hike With Me," is a non-profit organization based in Petra, Jordan, which uses hiking and adventure tourism to promote positive change in local communities.
Alaya's idea for the long-distance walk was inspired by his upbringing in Petra, a popular tourist destination that attracts people from around the world. He believes that walking is an easy way to connect with people, hear their stories, and share his own experiences. Alaya's goal is to go beyond just covering a long distance; he wants to create a platform for people to come together, regardless of their cultural backgrounds or nationalities. He emphasizes the importance of education in promoting peace and understanding among nations.
During his journey, Alaya visits schools and educational institutions, meeting with students, teachers, and local communities to discuss peace, education, and coexistence. He carries a white flag as a symbol of peace and hopes to inspire others to join him in promoting a message of unity and understanding. Alaya's journey is not without challenges; he has faced difficulties such as finding food and shelter, and dealing with visa issues. Despite these obstacles, he remains committed to his mission.
Alaya's visit to Rwanda has been marked by a meeting with local film star Rosine Bazongere, who was impressed by his determination and endurance. Bazongere invited Alaya to join her team for the "Car Free Day" event in Kigali, which took place on October 4. Alaya's organization, "Hike With Me," has been involved in various hiking and adventure tourism activities in Jordan and Africa, aiming to promote cultural exchange and community development.
Before embarking on his current journey, Alaya had already gained extensive experience in hiking and adventure tourism, having led tours in Africa, Europe, and Asia. He began guiding tourists in Petra at the age of 16 and later worked as a certified tour guide. Alaya's experience has equipped him with the skills and knowledge needed to undertake his current long-distance walk.
As Alaya continues his journey, he hopes to leave a lasting legacy that goes beyond just the distance he covers. He aims to promote peace, education, and cultural exchange, and to inspire others to join him in his mission. Alaya's journey is a testament to the power of human determination and the importance of promoting understanding and cooperation among nations.
Key points
- Saddam Alaya is walking 23,000 kilometers across 18 countries to promote peace, education, and good relations among people from different countries.
- Alaya's journey is expected to take between two and two-and-a-half years to complete.
- He has already traversed seven countries, including South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, Burundi, and Rwanda.
