Cookhouse becomes first Eastern Cape
Community to launch Exxaro’s “Kids on Bikes” programme
Youth Month Feature
A community programme combining cycling skills with youth empowerment and life lessons.
Cookhouse set a precedent on Thursday, 22 May 2025, by becoming the first community in the Eastern Cape to officially launch the “Kids on Bikes” programme, a cycling and youth development project led by Exxaro. The event was hosted at the Madiba Community Hall with support from Msobomvu Primary School and was attended by over 300 people, including learners, parents, local leaders, and company representatives. Guests included Mayor of Blue Crane Route Local Municipality, Councillor Manxoweni, Cennergi CEO Danie du Plessis, Busisiwe Gxumisa, Esther Zondi, and Malusi Buthelezi from Exxaro. Partners from Cookhouse Windfarm, Ikhala FM community radio, and members of the school’s governing body were also present.
It was a joyous occasion as learners warmly welcomed the cyclists, dressed in full gear. The programme aims to teach children the value of sport, fitness, and discipline, and will later be introduced in Adelaide, Bedford, and Somerset East.
Msobomvu Primary School Principal, Mrs T Gxoyiya, said: “We are humbled by this partnership. Seeing our learners so excited today reminds us why we do this work. We are thankful for the support from Cennergi and Exxaro – they have always been there to change lives in our school.”
Cennergi CEO, Danie du Plessis, spoke about the power of teamwork: “It’s when companies, communities, and government work together that real change happens. This programme is a beautiful example of what can be done when we unite around our children’s future.”
The Mayor of Blue Crane Route Municipality, Honourable Manxoweni, also welcomed the initiative, saying: “Programmes like these bring hope to our communities. I’m proud that Cookhouse was chosen as the starting point for this great journey, and we commit to working together with Exxaro for the expansion of the programme and support of local government plans.”
Exxaro’s Malusi Buthelezi shared how the programme supports more than just cycling: “We’re not only giving bikes, but we’re also building dreams. Through cycling, we teach young people about goals, respect, and believing in themselves.”
The “Kids on Bikes” initiative is part of Exxaro’s Mountain Biking Academy, which has supported young people since 2011 through sport and education. It is also connected to the international Absa Cape Epic cycling event, giving youth the chance to dream bigger and go further.
This special day in Cookhouse ended with smiles, laughter, and a clear message – our children’s future can be bright when we work together.
Exxaro’s Malusi Buthelezi shared how the programme supports more than just cycling: “We’re not only giving bikes, but we’re also building dreams. Through cycling, we teach young people about goals, respect, and believing in themselves.”
The “Kids on Bikes” initiative is part of Exxaro’s Mountain Biking Academy, which has supported young people since 2011 through sport and education. It is also connected to the international Absa Cape Epic cycling event, giving youth the chance to dream bigger and go further.
This special day in Cookhouse ended with smiles, laughter, and a clear message – our children’s future can be bright when we work together.
