The government through the Ministry of Sports has officially opened the 2025 Africa Road Cycling Championship in Diani, Kwale County, marking the second time the country is hosting the continental competition.
More than 30 African countries and 316 cyclists have confirmed participation, making this year’s event the largest cycling championship staged on the continent. The competition will run for four days across various routes in Kwale’s challenging terrain.
Speaking Wednesday during the opening ceremony at Swahili beach in Kwale, the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya, who presided over the launch, said the event underscores Kenya’s growing capacity to host major international sporting activities.
Mvurya noted that the government’s recent decision to waive visas for African visitors was partly aimed at boosting participation in such continental events.
He said the Confederation of African Cycling selected Kwale county after scouting for a venue with a demanding hill course suitable for elite competition. Officials from the Confederation have already tested the terrain and endorsed it as the main challenge point for the championship.
“Kwale was selected after the African Cycling Confederation requested a venue with a steep and competitive hill course. A technical team from the Confederation confirmed that the county’s terrain met the requirements for elite-level racing,” said Mvurya.
The government has placed the championship within its broader strategy to promote sports tourism and expand Kenya’s international profile. According to the CS, large-scale sporting events offer opportunities to showcase the country’s investment potential and cultural appeal.
The competition will run for four days, featuring individual and team road races and time trials across various routes in Kwale.
Mvurya further revealed that the government has revised upwards the national cash reward scheme for athletes, increasing the prize for a gold medal from Sh750,000 to Sh3,000,000. The enhancement, he said, is part of efforts to make sports a sustainable source of livelihood for Kenyan athletes.
The government also pledged to strengthen anti-doping efforts to ensure Kenyan athletes compete cleanly and uphold the country’s global reputation. Plans are underway to enhance capacity at the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya to match international standards.
Several government agencies, including the ministries of roads, tourism, interior, and sports, contributed to preparations for the event. The County Government of Kwale was also commended for providing logistical support and an enabling environment for the championship.
Cycling is one of the disciplines the government is prioritising as part of its long-term sports development agenda, with emphasis on promoting it both as a competitive sport and a green mode of mobility.
The launch ceremony was attended by officials from the Cycling Federation, the African Cycling Confederation, county leaders, security agencies, and representatives from partner organisations.
Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani officially welcomed all visiting teams, describing Kwale as a premier tourism and sports destination known for its sandy beaches, marine attractions and cultural diversity.
“Kwale is proud to host this prestigious event showcasing the best of African cycling talent,” she said.
She congratulated the Cycling Federation of Kenya and the local organising committee for their collaboration in preparing the championship.
The governor encouraged visitors to explore the county’s attractions, including dolphin tours in Wasini, Shimba Hills National Reserve, and Diani’s award-winning beaches.
Kenya hopes to improve its performance in continental cycling, with officials expressing confidence that the country will soon begin producing top-tier cyclists, like its dominance in athletics.
By Chari Suche
