Sixteen-year-old Mubarak Shaaban Mohammed became Ghana’s sole representative in the cycling events at the 2025 Africa Youth Games, marking the country’s first appearance in the discipline since 2014.

Guided by Coach Shaaban Mohammed, the talented youngster tackled two gruelling races: the Men’s Youth Individual Time Trial (13.48 km) and the Men’s Youth Road Race (94.36 km across seven laps of the same circuit).

The competition, originally restricted to riders aged 14–16, was altered at the last minute to include 17- and 18-year-olds, intensifying the challenge for younger athletes like Mubarak.

In the Road Race, he battled against older and more seasoned competitors before being lapped and withdrawn under international rules— a common outcome that still provided valuable experience on a continental stage.

Algeria topped the cycling standings, with Ethiopia taking silver and Tunisia bronze.

Ghana’s cycling federation hailed Mubarak’s participation as a significant milestone. Competing alone against established programmes from across Africa, the teenager displayed remarkable composure and determination.

His effort continues a thread begun in 2014, when Frank Akuffo David Awuku represented Ghana at the Games in Botswana. Officials say Mubarak’s performance in Luanda reinforces the importance of sustained investment in youth development and signals brighter prospects for Ghanaian cycling on the continental scene.

The 2025 Africa Youth Games have showcased emerging talent from across the continent, with participation alone often proving the foundation for future success.