At least 40 cyclists are on a 1,150-kilometer journey to raise awareness about arthritis and funds to build a modern arthritis clinic in Likuyani Sub-county.
The ride, supported by World Bicycle Relief (WBR), will traverse some of the country’s most iconic landscapes uniting communities in a shared mission to improve access to healthcare and promote mobility as a tool for change.
The cyclists will traverse key towns, including Nairobi, Nakuru, Kisumu, and Kitale, before concluding in Busia.
The ride aims to address the growing burden of arthritis in Kenya, where thousands of people, many in rural areas live with the condition.
The funds raised will go toward constructing a dedicated modern arthritis clinic to provide specialized care, a critical resource for those affected by this chronic and often debilitating disease.
‘’Funds raised so far through this initiative have helped in constructing Phase 1 of arthritis clinic, on a 9-acre land. This ride is not just about the kilometres we cover; it’s about the lives we touch and the awareness we create for better healthcare access. The statistics are sobering, but this ride is about hope,” Chair of the Arthritis Ride Moses Ogola said.
The new arthritis clinic in Likuyani aims to bridge the gap by providing specialized care, education, and support for patients.
Regional Director for East Africa at World Bicycle Relief Maureen Kolenyo said that cycling for the cause will ensure arthritis patients, particularly those in rural areas, can access the treatment and support they need.
‘’We are honoured to support this cycling event. The Arthritis Ride showcases not only the impact of buffalo bicycles but also the power of collective action to address critical healthcare needs like arthritis,” Kolenyo added.
Some of the cyclists are riding Buffalo Bicycles from World Bicycle Relief. These bicycles symbolize resilience and sustainability, aligning perfectly with the goals of the Arthritis Ride.
World Bicycle Relief has distributed over 77,000 Buffalo Bicycles in Kenya since 2010, empowering healthcare workers, students, and small business owners to overcome mobility challenges.
In healthcare alone, WBR has equipped 19,407 health workers, enabling them to increase patient visits by up to 35 per cent reach underserved areas faster, and save countless lives.
"Mobility is key to solving healthcare challenges, especially in rural areas where the challenge of distance often stands between patients and life-saving care. By empowering communities with bicycles, we’re not just providing a means of transport—we’re bridging the gap and bringing healthcare closer to those who need it most,” Kolenyo said.
Founded in 2005, World Bicycle Relief mobilizes people through the Power of Bicycles.