Africa Moyo Deputy News Editor

One of the more prominent figures to emerge from Domboshava was the flamboyant and rich businessman Genius “Ginimbi” Kadungure.

Ginimbi, as he was known by his legion of followers across the divide, was addicted to fast and luxury cars, could afford them, and died in one in a fiery road accident on November 8, 2020.

But a completely opposite character has emerged in Domboshava, Mr Charles William Gutsa, a fanatical cyclist who handles all journeys — like anything under 200km — on two wheels propelled by his pedals. He brings up the fact that he is fit, and that is not from a fancy gymnasium. 

For him, cycling is about just navigating congested roads a lot faster than a car, just overtaking the lot when they enter gridlocks; and bus companies do not get his cash.

He has not boarded a bus or car when travelling from Harare to Chivhu and back, and visits his in-laws in Macheke and back from Domboshava, on the bike.

Mr Gutsa (37), owns a Silverback Shimano bicycle, made in Japan, and here he goes for the top end of available technology.

Now, Mr Gutsa is seriously considering trying to cycle to Mutare from Harare, which is a 263km journey.

While Mr Gutsa’s story is captivating, it is not extraordinary as some cyclists, especially professionals, cover longer distances than him.

For instance, Mr Meli Ndlovu who is based in Johannesburg, South Africa, cycled for 863km over two days to Bulawayo to raise awareness about Covid-19.

Tomorrow, Mr Ndlovu — commonly known as The Cyclist — is expected to embark on a similar trip, this time in an awareness campaign to educate schools on the use of Ordinary Level study packs. 

But in an interview, Mr Gutsa said he started cycling in 2015 and has no appetite to abandon the bicycle any time soon.

“I started cycling in 2015 after realising that transport costs were rising. Even today, transport costs are high up there and when you have a bicycle and can ride it, there is no need to part ways with such huge amounts,” he said.

“The other reason I opted to cycle is that of congestion. There are too many vehicles on the road and I find it easier and faster to travel with my bike.

“But more importantly, I gain physical fitness from cycling. The idea of being physically fit is gaining momentum now, when some of us have already started. I am happy that some parts of the world have led the way in promoting cycling to reduce emissions and save the climate and also stay healthy.”

Mr Gutsa said he can ride his bicycle from Harare to Chivhu, Harare to Mahusekwa and Harare to Macheke, among other distances, carrying 25kg luggage.

He used to work in Cape Town, South Africa, and that was one of the few distances he needed a bus for.

Interestingly, Mr Gutsa has found disciples in his home area of Domboshava, who have been secretly admiring him while he rode the bicycle.

They now want Mr Gutsa to teach them how to ride bicycles for longer distances.

“Many people come to me asking how I am doing it and they have been asking me to set up a club where I will teach people about cycling.

“Everyone says cycling will help them keep fit. At this point, the cycling club has 10 guys who were excited by my cycling,” he said.

Asked if he is charging the people for the lessons, Mr Gutsa said at the moment, he just wants US$10, per person, but going forward, he will charge a joining fee.

“The money is needed to buy equipment and as people cycle for longer distances while practicing, they require energy drinks and milk, which have to be bought by the club,” he said.

Mr Gutsa is married and has one child.