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Security beefed up in Kwale ahead of Africa cycling event
Kenya’s David Kinjah in action during the 2024 Confederation of Africa Cycling Road Cycling African Championships-Kenya, Men Elite + Under 23, 158km race from Eldoret City in Uasin Gishu County to Iten in Elgeyo Marakwet County on October 13, 2024.
What you need to know:
- The continental competition returns to Kenya for the second consecutive year after Eldoret hosted the championship in 2024.
- The event, which will feature cyclists from 28 countries, is expected to draw thousands of spectators from within Kwale and beyond.
Security has been beefed up in Kwale County ahead of the Confederation of African Cycling (CAC) Africa Road Cycling Championships that will run from November 19 to 23 in Diani.
The continental competition returns to Kenya for the second consecutive year. In 2024, Eldoret hosted the championship.
Ahead of the hosting of the championship, Kwale County Commissioner, Stephen Orinde, has said security agencies in the region are on high alert to ensure safety of participants and visitors.
“This is one of the biggest events in the county. We have been holding several meetings as security chiefs to ensure visitors enjoy a peaceful stay in a secure environment,” Orinde, who also chairs the county security committee, said on Thursday.
Orinde noted that while Diani has previously faced security challenges brought about by youth gangs, commonly known as “Panga Boys,” the situation has since improved.
“We have made great progress in countering these gangs, and we can assure everyone that Diani is safe,” he said.
The event, which will feature cyclists from 28 countries, is expected to draw thousands of spectators from within Kwale and beyond. Races will take place in Diani, and in Kwale town.
Orinde said the championships will be broadcast to more than 30 countries, providing global visibility for Kenya’s coastal tourism hub. He also announced that participants will dedicate a day will to community participation, allowing residents to join a local cycling event with their own bikes.
To ensure smooth operations, several key roads in the region will be partially closed during race times.
Governor Fatuma Achani said the affected sections include Lofta-Mvindeni Road, Diani Beach Road near Absa Bank, Kwale-Kombani Road, and sections of the Likoni-Lungalunga highway.
Some speed bumps along the designated race routes will be removed to enhance safety and performance.
Governor Achani expressed pride in Kwale’s selection as host, praising the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, led by Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, for supporting the county’s bid.
“We are proud to host this major event. Its success will also serve as a great marketing strategy for Diani as a leading tourism and sports destination,” she said.
Speaking in Nairobi on Thursday, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya said: “I welcome Africa and Kenya to Diani for this great championship. We are committed to promoting every sporting talent. Every sporting event boosts tourism and the local economy.”
Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi said the event stands to bring significant economic benefit to Kwale through tourism, hospitality, and trade.
Cyclists will compete in elite men and women’s categories, the under-23 categories for men and women, and junior categories.
Kenya was granted hosting rights of the championship after Congo Brazzaville withdrew at the last minute.
