A Jordan-based nonprofit organisation, Hike With Me, has announced an ambitious two-year expedition that will see participants embark on what is being described as the World’s Longest Peace March, a 23,000km walk from Cape Agulhas in South Africa to Magadan in Russia.

The march, set to begin on January 1, 2026, will cross 18 countries and span more than two years on foot. The organisation’s founder, Alaya, is expected to arrive in Cape Town in mid-December 2025 to begin planning the route, meet with communities, and invite South Africans and international participants to join.

According to Hike With Me spokesperson Bia Twaissi, the idea for the march was born more than five years ago when Alaya stumbled across a social media post illustrating the continuous walkable route between South Africa and Russia.

“That realisation sparked something inside me, an unusual mix of challenge and purpose,” Twaissi said.

“It pushed me to start planning, researching, and preparing ever since.”

South Africa was chosen as the starting point because the route naturally begins at the continent’s southernmost tip, Cape Agulhas.

Central to the march is a white flag, a symbol the organisation hopes will resonate globally.

“The white flag represents peace, non-bias, rejection of racism, and equality,” Twaissi said.

“It’s a universal symbol that needs no translation. Carrying it for 23,000 km is my way of reminding people everywhere that peace is not an abstract idea, it’s a daily commitment to fairness, respect, and unity.”

The route was selected based on one primary condition: that it must be fully walkable. The path largely mirrors a continuous overland route visible on Google Maps. Considerations included access to water, electricity, safety, food, and emergency planning.

Crossing 18 borders comes with expected challenges, from wildlife and weather to crime and physical exhaustion. But Alaya noted that diplomatic efforts are well underway.

“I carry a Jordanian passport, which fortunately has strong diplomatic standing,” she said.

“I have already contacted all the embassies of the countries along the route. They have expressed support and will provide the necessary preparations and assistance during my passage.”

South Africans are encouraged to join the march at any stage or simply support the initiative.

 “We hope South Africans will join the walk, even for a few steps, or simply show encouragement,” Twaissi said.

“The people of South Africa have a powerful history with unity and resilience, and their participation would give this global journey a meaningful and symbolic beginning.”

The march will be documented extensively, with the organisation planning continuous 24/7 live-streaming across social media platforms, a global documentary, and coverage by more than 22 international media outlets.

 “We anticipate a worldwide viewership of over 480 million people,” said Twaissi.

Hike With Me says it is seeking partnerships with the Ministry of Tourism, local NGOs, cultural organisations, media groups, and hiking associations.

Registration to join or support the march will open online through the organisation’s website and social media platforms, with participation open and free to the public.

Ultimately, the initiative aims to spark a global movement rooted in unity.

“The ultimate goals are to promote peace, reject racism, and reinforce equality across borders,” Twaissi said.

“By the end of the journey, we hope this walk becomes a global symbol of hope, reminding the world that peace begins with individuals choosing empathy and understanding, step by step.”

IOL News

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