Picture: (SAPS) in Kimberley welcomed Alaya, who has embarked on the longest walkable route on Earth to promote peace across the world/Supplied
By STAFF REPORTER
10 February 2026- On Tuesday, the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Kimberley welcomed Alaya, who has embarked on the longest walkable route on Earth to promote peace across the world. Alaya, originally from the Kingdom of Jordan, was received by members from the Office of the Provincial Commissioner, the Frances Baard District Commissioner’s Office, and Kimberley SAPS.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said Frances Baard District Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari, accompanied by the Provincial Head of Corporate Communication and Liaison, Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien, officially welcomed him to Kimberley on a wet and cool morning. Ehlers said during a gathering at the Kimberley Big Hole, Makgari commended Alaya for undertaking such an extraordinary journey in support of a noble cause that affects the global community.
“She conveyed her heartfelt admiration for his bravery, dedication, and perseverance, and wished him well for the remainder of his journey. Alaya addressed the men and women in blue, sharing the purpose of his project and inspiring those in attendance through his humility and passion for promoting peace.
“He also emphasised the importance of education and investing in the youth as a foundation for a peaceful future. Alaya commenced his remarkable journey on 1 January 2026 from Cape Agulhas and reached Kimberley after completing approximately 1000 kilometres on foot,” she said.
Ehlers further said he will continue his 23 000km journey through 18 countries over a period of 730 days, with Magadan in Russia as his final destination. She added that the management of the Kimberley Big Hole hosted Alaya and the SAPS delegation on a tour of the Open Mine, where the history of Kimberley and the diamond industry was shared.
“During his stay, Alaya will visit several schools in the Greater Kimberley area to promote the peace initiative and motivate learners on the importance of education. Upon departing the Northern Cape, he will proceed through the North West as his journey continues.
“Members of the public who encounter Alaya along his route are encouraged to join and accompany him in support of this peace initiative,” said Ehlers.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, wished Alaya well on his journey and reaffirmed SAPS’ support for initiatives that promote peace, unity, and social cohesion. Otola further acknowledged the continued participation and generosity displayed by law enforcement officials in supporting this extraordinary and worthy cause.
The Guardian 