In the vibrant heart of West Africa, where the rhythm of highlife music meets the hum of bicycle chains, cycling is emerging as more than just a sport—it’s a catalyst for cultural revival, youth empowerment, and economic growth. At the forefront of this transformation stands the Ghana Cycling Federation (GCF), led by two visionary leaders: President Mohammed B. Sahnoon and Secretary General Mohammed Shaaban. Their tireless efforts have not only elevated cycling from a niche activity to one of Ghana’s top five sports but have also positioned it as a bridge to the nation’s rich heritage. As the prestigious Tour du Ghana gears up for its 2025 edition—from November 13 to 24—the duo’s contributions are set to culminate in a high-profile event that promises to spotlight Ghana’s tourism treasures and the newly launched Black Star Experience.
Mohammed Sahnoon, President of the Ghana Cycling Federation, enstooled as Nana Kwesi Tenkorang II, symbolizing his deep roots in Ghanaian tradition. (Source: X/@greatoseiasibey)
A Dynamic Duo: Leadership That Drives Change
Mohammed Sahnoon, a lawyer by training and a sports administrator par excellence, assumed the presidency of the GCF in 2022 and has since been re-elected unopposed, a testament to his unwavering commitment.3a74eb As Secretary General of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), Sahnoon brings a continental perspective, recently earning a spot on the Management Committee of the Confederation of African Cycling (CAC) in February 2025.0701ee His election in Cairo, Egypt, was hailed as recognition of his “instrumental” role in promoting cycling across Africa.368acb
Complementing Sahnoon’s strategic vision is Mohammed Shaaban, the GCF’s Secretary General and a global advocate for paracycling as President of the UCI Paracycling Commission.213a33 Shaaban’s technical expertise has been pivotal in forging international partnerships, including collaborations with the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) and the Bahati Foundation in the U.S.be8000 Together, they have transformed the GCF from a federation grappling with equipment shortages—highlighted during the 2024 African Games—into a proactive force for development.a50c6a
Building Foundations: Grassroots Growth and International Ambitions
Under Sahnoon and Shaaban’s stewardship, the GCF has launched a series of initiatives that prioritize youth and inclusivity. Youth programs have seen participation soar, with community events fostering physical fitness and discipline among young Ghanaians.43127b The federation’s partnership with the Bahati Foundation, initiated in 2023, provides coaching, equipment, and training camps aimed at preparing athletes for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.be47cb “Catching cyclists young and preparing them can yield the desired results,” noted National Sports Authority Director General Professor Peter Twumasi during a foundation visit.1751fa
Shaaban has been instrumental in technical advancements, overseeing the handover of Africa’s first UCI-standard velodrome documents from DerbyWheel Pro Keiren in 2022—a $60 million project set to revolutionize training facilities.f3feaf Additionally, the GCF has integrated paracycling, with Shaaban’s UCI role ensuring Ghana hosts inclusive events like the 2023 African Road Cycling and Paracycling Championships, attracting 20-40 countries.10bbae These efforts have boosted female participation, with dedicated training sessions for the 2023 African Games.73b3c0
The results are tangible: The 10th National Cycling Road Championships in November 2024 drew 65 riders from five regions, crowning new champions and signaling cycling’s rising popularity.f172ae Sponsors like Prudential Life Insurance and Stanbic Bank Ghana have poured resources into these events, crediting the duo’s professional management.a86d4e
A thrilling moment from a recent Tour du Ghana stage, showcasing the sport’s growing excitement. (Source: X/@theo_sampah)
The Tour du Ghana: A Cultural Odyssey on Wheels
The crown jewel of their tenure is the Tour du Ghana, the GCF’s flagship multi-stage race. The 2025 edition, running from November 13 to 24 across three regions, will feature eight grueling stages, 12 international teams from 10 countries, and over 349 kilometers of Ghana’s diverse landscapes.4637638b9ee8 Sahnoon is slated to flag off the race on November 15 in Accra, marking a symbolic start to this 12-day spectacle that blends athletic prowess with cultural immersion.
More than a race, the Tour du Ghana is a tourism powerhouse. Riders will pedal through historic sites like Cape Coast Castle and the lush Mole National Park, showcasing Ghana’s UNESCO-listed heritage and vibrant festivals.fcedcf Past editions, like the 2023 event that drew 150 local cyclists, have integrated local festivals, boosting visibility for Ghana Tourist Board initiatives.f57e12 The 2025 tour explicitly ties into the Black Star Experience, Ghana’s groundbreaking cultural brand launched in April 2025 to position the nation as Africa’s creative capital.a1e8b8 This initiative, with its seven pillars including exhibition matches and film weeks, aims to attract global investments and diaspora visitors, with cycling as a dynamic entry point.e2edf7
President John Dramani Mahama has championed the Black Star Experience as a tool to “promote tourism and showcase our rich culture,” linking it to events like the Tour du Ghana for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) tourism.98c1dd6c88b9 By weaving in street carnivals, fashion festivals, and heritage tours, the event will generate jobs and spotlight Ghana’s “legendary hospitality.”bf5b37
The vibrant logo for Tour du Ghana 2025, embodying speed, culture, and national pride. (Source: X/@accradailypost)
A Legacy in Motion: Challenges Overcome, Horizons Ahead
Despite hurdles—like equipment woes at the African Games, where Shaaban publicly called out ministerial neglect—the duo’s resilience shines through.89581d Their advocacy has secured UCI athlete development programs, benefiting six Ghanaian riders since 2014, including Farrakhan Shaaban Mohammed, who will represent Ghana at South Africa’s National Championships.ecf38cac0c3c
As the Tour du Ghana approaches, Sahnoon and Shaaban’s vision is clear: Make cycling a household name, one pedal stroke at a time. With international eyes on Ghana this November, their leadership isn’t just growing a sport—it’s propelling a nation toward a culturally vibrant, economically empowered future. Akwaaba to the ride!
