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Jordan’s Mohammad Sabbagh scales Africa’s highest peak Mount Kilimanjaro

Sabbagh, along with two Jordanians, spent seven days ascending to top of mountain

By Batool Ghaith - Sep 18,2021 - Last updated at Sep 18,2021

Mohammad Sabbagh poses for a photo at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, on September 9 (Photo courtesy of Mohammad Sabbagh)

AMMAN — The 25-year-old Jordanian radio host and influencer, Mohammad Sabbagh, reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, on September 9. 

At 5,895 metres above sea level, the mountain is the highest in Africa and the highest single-free standing mountain in the world. 

Sabbagh spent seven days ascending to the top of the mountain, where he covered a distance of 65 kilometres. Sabbagh documented the journey on social media for his fans and supporters. 

 “We spent five days hiking to the top and two days going down. It was one of the most difficult things I have ever done,” Sabbagh told The Jordan Times during an interview over the phone.

Sabbagh said that there were eight climbers from the US, South Africa, Romania and Jordan, with a team of 10 guides to help them through the journey. However, he added: “Only four of us could make it to the top.”

Sabbagh noted that they faced many challenges, such as altitude sickness and injuries, but nothing too dangerous.

“Everyone had altitude sickness, which is uncontrollable, but some had it worse than others. I suffered from dizziness, headaches and nose bleeds because of the freezing cold weather. But, I managed to continue my journey to the top,” he said.

Sabbagh pointed out that he had prepared for this journey for over a month, training at the gym and practising the correct breathing techniques. 

“Such adventure requires a lot of hard work and experience, but as I have been an athlete for over 10 years, I had an advantage. I went on the journey to challenge myself mentally and physically and to push my limits,” Sabbagh said.

“The feeling of reaching the summit was indescribable; it was very satisfying and joyful. I am very happy to have raised my country’s flag,” he said.

Sabbagh added that he climbed the mountain to support and bring awareness to the Jordanian charity, Sana for Special Individuals, which supports people with intellectual challenges and helps them integrate in society. 

The journey’s slogan was “We All Can”, in support of people with disabilities, Sabbagh said.

Sabbagh was accompanied by two other Jordanians, Yusuf Dwairi and Omar Almawajdeh, who also made it to the top. 

“Most days, we had to hike for 10 hours in -10 Celsius temperatures, while we did not have proper sleep. It was difficult, but I am happy with what I have achieved,” he added.

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