Lagos to Accra and Back: Shades of Life Foundation’s Cycling Crusade for Autism Awareness

Mary Nnah

In a bold bid to shatter the culture of silence surrounding autism in West Africa, Shades of Life Foundation (SOLF) embarked on an extraordinary 1,000 km bicycle ride from Lagos, Nigeria, to Accra, Ghana, and back. This epic journey aimed to raise awareness, promote understanding, and inspire action to support individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Eleven riders, medical personnel, and drivers set off on August 20th at 4:30 a.m., traversing four international borders—Nigeria, Sèmè, Benin Republic, Togo, and Ghana—over five gruelling days. The team faced numerous challenges, from rugged terrain to scorching heat, but their determination remained unwavering.

SOLF Founder Dr. Eziafakaku Nwokolo hailed the journey as “an incredible feat” that underscores the organization’s commitment to raising autism awareness across borders. “This ride symbolizes our resolve to break down barriers and stigma surrounding autism in West Africa,” she said.

The ride culminated in Accra, where SOLF collaborated with Play with Stephen, an initiative by Stephen Onaivi, who uses golf to promote autism awareness. Dr. Nwokolo emphasized the significance of the ride as a metaphor for supporting neurodiverse individuals. “Just as cycling requires persistence and dedication, supporting individuals with autism demands compassion, understanding, and inclusive communities.”

During the Autism Awareness event in Accra, Dr. Nwokolo delivered a heartfelt speech highlighting the daily struggles families of children with autism face in Africa due to limited resources.
“Autism is not a disability but a different ability,” she stressed. “Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to unlocking every child’s potential. We must promote understanding, inclusion, and opportunities for all individuals on the spectrum”, Nwokolo noted.

SOLF’s mission is to provide resources for Autism Intervention services, tackling social stigma and general lack of awareness in West Africa. The organization aims to create a supportive environment where individuals with autism can thrive.

The warm welcome in Accra was proof of the growing awareness and solidarity for the cause.
Ghanaians in the city greeted the SOLF team with open arms, and their hosts at ‘Play with Stephen’ provided a memorable reception at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel.

To support SOLF’s cause, visit: solf.shadesoflifecare.com. Join the conversation and help break the silence surrounding autism in West Africa.