Wheels of Change: Durban Embraces Active Mobility at Cycle Sunday Event Durban, 26 October 2025
Durban’s Blue Lagoon and northern transit corridor came alive on Sunday morning as hundreds of cyclists, families, and community groups took to the M4 for the City’s inaugural Cycle Sunday, organised by Peschl Sports, Cycle Lab, and the Pedal Power Association, in partnership with the eThekwini Transport Authority’s (ETA) GO!Durban programme.
As an activation during Transport Month, Cycle Sunday showcased the City’s growing commitment to Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) and a more integrated, people-centred transport system.
Durban is moving towards a fully integrated transport system, one that combines buses, taxis, trains, cycling, and walking into a seamless network. Making Durban a better and safer place to cycle, improves the transport network making it a better place to live, to work, and to do business.
Cycle Sunday was not only a community ride but also an educational experience. A youth cycling zone at the Moses Mabhida Lawns introduced children aged 6 to 12 to safe cycling practices, from helmet use to hand signalling and road safety and awareness.
Nelisiwe Zama, Acting Director of the ETA, said the event highlighted the importance of education and shared road responsibility.
“Cycle Sunday is about changing how we think about moving around our City,” said Zama. “Roads are not just for cars , they are primarily for people. People who walk, cycle, use public transport, and drive. If we understand this, we will create a safer, more inclusive Durban transport system.”
Zama added that education and awareness are key to transforming behaviour.
“Infrastructure alone cannot change behaviour. It’s through awareness, empathy, and respect that we build a new road culture,” she said.
Cycle Sunday forms part of the City’s broader push to promote NMT as a practical, affordable, and sustainable way to travel — connecting residents to public transport and bridging the crucial “first and last kilometre” between homes, bus stops, taxi ranks, and workplaces.
Zama reaffirmed ETA’s commitment in creating a transport system that connects people to opportunity while improving health, reducing emissions, and boosting the local economy.
“Events like this raise awareness, and inspire a cultural shift toward active mobility,” said Zama. “Our dream is simple, a Durban where everyone, regardless of income, gender, or age, can move freely, safely, and affordably.”
The event’s success reflected strong partnership and community participation, with families, schools, and cycling clubs joining forces with the City to support safer, cleaner mobility. The festive atmosphere featured music, refreshment stations, and cycling activations along the M4.
“Cycle Sunday has shown us what’s possible when people and bicycles take centre stage,” said Zama. “Together, we are not just building infrastructure — we are building a culture.”
Encouraged by the success of the inaugural event, the City hopes Cycle Sunday will become a regular feature on Durban’s calendar, supporting its long-term goal of embedding NMT into urban design, education, and transport integration.
The City encourages residents to keep cycling safely, support road-sharing awareness, and take part in future NMT programmes and community rides.
