South African runs from Cape Town to Cairo in world-record time to inspire youth

Clarence Ford interviews 'Rainbow Runner' Keith Boyd.

Listen below.

Retired telecoms entrepreneur Keith Boyd undertook an extraordinary feat, embarking on a 10 793km journey across nine countries from Cape Town to Cairo in a remarkable 302 days.

This endeavour shattered the previous record by over two weeks, unfolding amidst challenging terrains, including warzones.

Throughout this arduous trek, Boyd encountered numerous obstacles, from a heart complication to excruciating foot pain, attempted kidnappings, personal setbacks, and staring down the barrel of a gun.

RELATED: Keith Boyd on track to break Cape to Cairo world record despite kidnapping attempt

Yet, within 302 days, amidst doubts and questioning, he remained steadfast, reminding himself and others that temporary challenges pale compared to the lasting impact of one's actions.

"It's a really silly thing to do, actually, more dangerous than I had hoped."

- Keith Boyd, Rainbow Runner

As a dedicated social activist, his driving force was to ignite a fervent spirit within South Africa's youth, urging them to actively engage in shaping their nation's future and realising its full potential.

Expressing concern for the future of South Africa, Boyd emphasises the critical need for youth engagement in democracy.

He fears that a passive attitude among the youth could jeopardise the nation's fragile state, plagued by poverty and unemployment.

Highlighting the unjust barriers hindering progress, he advocates for creating fair and accessible pathways for success, recognising that the playing field is unfairly skewed against the individuals it should uplift.

"We have the most unequal society on the face of the planet."

- Keith Boyd, Rainbow Runner

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.