Kimberley hosts Jordanian peace walker on historic journey

ALAYA, a Jordanian peace walker who founded Hike With Me, was welcomed in Kimberley on Tuesday by the South African Police Service (SAPS) as he embarks on the longest walkable route on Earth to promote peace.

Hike With Me is a non-profit NGO whose work includes everything from awareness campaigns and education programmes to record-breaking hikes, all guided by one mission: Walk with purpose. Connect with heart. Leave a footprint that matters.

Major General Charlotte Makgari, Frances Baard District Commissioner, officially welcomed Alaya to Kimberley, commending him for undertaking the extraordinary journey. She conveyed her heartfelt admiration for his bravery, dedication, and perseverance and wished him well for the remainder of his journey.

Alaya addressed SAPS members, sharing his project's purpose and inspiring attendees with his passion for promoting peace. He emphasised the importance of education and investing in the youth as a foundation for a peaceful future.

Alaya started his journey on 1 January 2026 from Cape Agulhas and reached Kimberley after completing approximately 1,000 kilometres on foot. He will continue his 23,000-kilometre journey through 18 countries over 730 days, ending in Magadan, Russia.

The Kimberley Big Hole management hosted Alaya and the SAPS delegation on a tour of the Open Mine, sharing the history of Kimberley and the diamond industry. Alaya will visit schools in Kimberley to promote the peace initiative and motivate learners on the importance of education.

The Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, wished Alaya well on his journey and reaffirmed SAPS’ support for initiatives that promote peace, unity, and social cohesion.

Alaya will proceed through the North West Province when departing the Northern Cape as his journey continues. Members of the public are encouraged to join and accompany him along his route in support of this peace initiative.