Cambridgeshire ACF Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure

Eight Army Cadets from Cambridgeshire ACF, accompanied by nine adult leaders, successfully summited Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, on 26 August 2025. The two-week expedition tested their resilience, teamwork, and determination, while also providing them with the opportunity to give back to the local community.

Before beginning their nine-day climb, the group spent time at a Tanzanian kid’s centre run by a charity, donating exercise books, stationery, and toys collected from families back home. They also experienced the warmth of the local culture, an encounter that many cadets described as life-changing.

About Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at 5,895 metres (19,341 feet), is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world. Located in Tanzania, it is famous for its diverse climate zones — from tropical rainforest at the base to snow and ice at the summit. Every year, thousands of trekkers attempt the climb, but only those with determination, teamwork, and stamina succeed in reaching the top.

Voices from the Summit

Cdt Cpl Oliver Adams described the trip as unforgettable:

“I had an amazing time on this trip it was definitely one I will never forget, from the welcome we got at the airport with the epic military convoy to the hotel and then up the mountain, to visiting the kid’s centre and being able to take lots of toys, books and craft for the children made me realise just how much we have over here and how much we should appreciate our lives more… nothing beats watching the sun rise as we summited and I would do it all again in a heartbeat.”

For Cdt Cpl Tristan Enderle, the summit push was the toughest moment:

“We approached the summit during the night. The temperature was well below freezing with a wind so strong it whipped your face. It was the hardest thing I have yet faced, but I knew it wasn’t the altitude but the attitude that would get me through. The view from the top was surreal. Looking down over Africa will never be forgotten.”

Cdt Cpl Jake Graham reflected on both the climb and the cultural experience:

“Climbing Kilimanjaro pushed my limits, but it was the time spent at the kid’s centre learning from the warmth, resilience, and culture of the people that left the deepest mark.”

Cdt Sgt Alexis Dowling highlighted the mental and physical resilience gained:

“Summiting Kilimanjaro challenged me in ways I didn’t expect. The altitude, exhaustion, and cold made every step feel impossible at times, but I discovered a resilience in myself that I didn’t know was there.”

For Cdt Cpl Sophia Xerri the journey was eye-opening

“The climbing was hard, but we spent most of the time talking to each other and getting to know one another. Reaching the summit was one of the best feelings I have ever had. We had put in so much work, and finally, we were there. It was brilliant. I am really proud of myself for going, and I feel much more confident. I made such close friends, I became so close with the others that I know we will remember each other forever.

Teamwork, Determination, and Lasting Memories

The expedition was only possible thanks to months of fundraising, the support of businesses, grants from ACCT UK and Ulysses Trust, adult instructors, parents, and the wider public. The cadets returned not only with memories of Africa’s highest peak but also with newfound confidence, friendships, and respect for cultures beyond their own.

‘Thank you to everyone who made this possible, the cadets, parents, CFAVs, the porters, hotel staff and Tanzanian military who escorted us. Special thanks goes to our Staff Officer Major Colin Wells. This trip was his idea, and could never have happened without his incredible determination, hard work and planning.” – Colonel Lesley Deacon.

This remarkable journey will remain with them for a lifetime.