Cape Town hikers honoured by Mayor after conquering Kilimanjaro

A group of Cape Town adventurers who successfully summited Mount Kilimanjaro were honoured by Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.

The hikers, who hail from across the city, received certificates of recognition for their achievement at Mr Hill-Lewis's office on Friday, October 31.

The group of hiking enthusiasts included Strandfontein couple Stephanie Singh, 55, and Vernon Singh, 55, fellow Strandfontein resident Wendy Brockman, 59, Helene Martin from Pelican Park, and Andre Kleinschmidt from Brackenfell.

Together, they formed a small team that set out to conquer the 5 895-metre giant in Tanzania. It was on Friday, July 18, when the group stood at Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, after eight grueling days of climbing the mountain ("Five Cape Town adventurers conquer Mount Kilimanjaro after eight days of trekking," The Plainsman, August 28).

The adventurers were visibly excited and said they were deeply honoured to be acknowledged by the mayor.

Ms Singh said she was grateful for the recognition. “I’m very, very honoured to receive this certificate from the Mayor with my peers.”

Ms Brockman described the experience as unforgettable. “From the top of Kilimanjaro — what an amazing view that was. Coming down and receiving an award from the mayor - what an honour.”

Ms Martin said the moment of reaching the summit was emotional. “When I got to the top of Kilimanjaro, I was so overwhelmed, I just cried. And to receive this, I feel very honoured...very good.”

Mr Hill-Lewis congratulated the group on their remarkable achievement. “I heard about this amazing group of Cape Town hikers from all over the city, who joined forces to climb Kilimanjaro — and look, they made it all the way to the top.”

“What an incredible accomplishment. Congratulations on behalf of South Africa and Cape Town. We are truly proud of you. One day, when you tackle a very, very small hill — an easy one — I will join you,” he said.