Take2 weeks ago
The Tour du Burundi has become the structural backbone of African women's cycling — not just a race, but the institution that makes racing careers possible on a continent where UCI women's stage races can still be counted on one hand.
The proof is in what the 2026 edition produced: Elizabeth of Sierra Leone became the first woman from her country to finish the race, Hermionne Ahouissou gave Benin its first-ever stage win in any international race, and Benin's coach Salami Avoceiten arrived having just completed advanced tactical training in the US. When Claudette Nyirarukundo was denied a European visa, Team Amani director Gebremariam's response was direct: «It's why it's so important to create racing opportunities at home too.» The race started with five nations in 2021; the 2026 edition drew eight African countries plus Kazakhstan at UCI 2.2 level — and the infrastructure building it is now as important as the results.
Sources