Trek4Mandela climbers head to Kilimanjaro

Media, friends and family came together for the send-off of this year's 23 climbers at the OR Tambo International Airport.

The climbers will be led by South African renowned adventurer Sibusiso Vilane on an expedition that aims to collect sanitary towels for school going girls. 

Vilane has assured climbers they have done everything possible to make sure the climb is successful and safe.

"We will have all the support and all we will need within our human abilities and capabilities. For the first time we will have a team doctor to manage the manageables," says Vilane.

Racing car driver Gugu Zulu died during last year's attempt.

His widow Letshego Zulu will attempt to climb the mountain again this year.  

"I'm having heart palpitations as I stand here. I clearly remember this day last year, in this very space - the energy, the excitement and the laughter. Today is a different kind of excitement," says Zulu.

Nelson Mandela Foundation Chief Executive Sello Hatang, who is part of the group of climbers, says those going on this year's trek are leaving behind a legacy.

"Today is about legacy. Legacies are meant to outlive those who establish them. Madiba has been passed for four years now and every year we keep celebrating his legacy, because he built it well," says Hatang.

"Gugu has been gone for a year now and we are saying his legacy will also live on."