Two friends from Sudan have completed an extraordinary 900-mile walk across the United Kingdom, raising significant funds to build schools for displaced children in their home country. Giel Malual and John Kuei embarked on this challenging journey from Dungeness in Kent to John o'Groats in Scotland, covering the distance in just 33 days.
Overwhelming Support from the British Public
Giel Malual, who moved to the UK from South Sudan at the age of 16, expressed his astonishment at the warmth and generosity they encountered throughout their trek. "All the houses that we slept in, all the welcome that we were given, all the warmth and the support, the cheers and the encouragement that we have received, it has been overwhelming," Malual remarked. The duo faced some of the coldest weather of the year, yet they were inundated with offers of hot meals and free accommodation from people across the nation.
In many instances, Airbnb hosts not only refunded their stays but also contributed to their cause. Numerous individuals stopped their cars to chat and make donations, showcasing a spirit of community that Malual found deeply moving. "We hear a lot of negativity from a loud minority in this country," he noted. "I believe it's not what truly represents the British public, because we have been accommodated by people from all cultures, races and backgrounds."
A Personal and Gruelling Challenge
The pair deliberately chose to undertake their walk during the winter months, starting on 19 December, to make it a tougher challenge and to raise awareness about the struggles faced by Sudanese people. One of the most demanding segments was crossing the border into Scotland, a 16-hour walk from Otterburn to Galashiels in temperatures as low as -5°C (23°F).
Malual explained the personal significance of this decision: "It's deeply personal to me. Deciding to do this in winter was to create awareness and also to put myself in the shoes of day-to-day Sudanese struggles in life, how hard it is for them to survive and walk hundreds of miles to find safety."
Exceeding Fundraising Goals
Initially aiming to raise £35,000 to open a school at a Sudanese refugee camp in Chad, Malual and Kuei have far surpassed their target, collecting almost £90,000. This success has expanded their ambitions, and they now hope to build several schools to support education in Sudan.
Their efforts were supported by Asylum Speakers, an organisation dedicated to amplifying refugee voices in the UK. Gulwali Passarlay, an Afghan refugee and public speaker who provided logistical support, highlighted the contrast between political rhetoric and public action. "The rightwing politicians keep saying they know the will of the people. But the will of the people we've seen has been very different," Passarlay stated. "In the last 900 miles, they've seen nothing but compassion, kindness and generosity."
A Warm Welcome in London
After reaching their final destination at Duncansby Head lighthouse on Wednesday, the friends returned to London on Thursday evening. They were greeted by a welcome party at King's Cross station, where supporters congratulated them on their remarkable achievement.
Reflecting on the journey, Malual shared a profound insight: "When we were on that journey, walking in the cold and on the road, finding these people we didn't know helping us out and supporting us, without judging us based on what we look like – that is the true value of this society."
This story underscores the power of community and charity, demonstrating how individual efforts can inspire widespread support and make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
