'Running Africa: A Journey of Heart and Hope': Keith Boyd reflects on record-breaking Cape to Cairo journey in new book

Scottish-born South African social activist Keith Boyd has reflected on his extraordinary 11,000-kilometre run from Cape Town to Cairo, which took 301 days and earned him a Guinness World Record. 

Speaking about his new book 'Running Africa: A Journey of Heart and Hope', Boyd says the experience was both physically gruelling and deeply emotional, inspiring his continued work with his youth-driven Rainbow Leaders Foundation, which promotes democracy and tackles poverty.

"There comes a point in life where you do want to do something bigger than yourself. I started this foundation, Rainbow Leaders, which is very much about pro-democracy, anti-poverty, and it's youth-focused."

He explains that his journey exposed him to Africa’s striking contrasts, from extreme wealth to overwhelming poverty, and it reminded him of the 'generosity of spirit' found even in the most impoverished communities. 

He also speaks candidly about the struggles he witnessed, especially the burden placed on women and girls who still spend their days fetching water and firewood instead of pursuing education.

"Why is it that we believe what we believe?" asks Boyd. "Why is it that we do things the way we do things? Old people, when we get into habits, we stick with our habits. The young people are willing to try everything. I think that's why young people drive change in every society. Every revolution in the world has been driven by young people, not old people. Old people come in and hijack the process and mess everything up afterwards."

The book is available online and at select stores, with proceeds supporting Rainbow Leaders’ pro-democracy youth programmes.

To listen to Boyd in conversation with CapeTalk's Clarence Ford, use the audio player below: