By Joyce Kifalu Zawadi | 8 August 2026
The Starehe Boys Centre cycling team has successfully arrived in Mombasa after completing a challenging journey of more than 1,100 kilometres that took them across several parts of the country over a period of two weeks.
The cyclists departed from Busia on August 3 as part of the Dr. Geoffrey Griffin Memorial Charity Bikeathon 2026, an initiative aimed at raising more than KSh10 million to support students at Starehe Boys’ and Starehe Girls’ schools.
The team travelled through the Rift Valley, Nairobi, Kambaland and Taita Taveta before making their final stop in Mombasa, where they received a warm welcome from sponsors and supporters, including Safaricom, St John Ambulance and Vivo Energy.
Technical team leader Ian Hisho said the campaign has so far raised about 10 percent of its target, with the team optimistic of reaching the KSh10 million goal before the official launch later this month.
«“We have managed to raise 10 percent of our KSh10 million target so far, and we are hopeful that Kenyans and other well-wishers will come on board to help us achieve the remaining amount.”»
The cyclists also raised concerns over road safety, particularly along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway. Leon Stanley, a Form Three student at Starehe Boys Centre who took part in the ride, said the lack of designated cycling lanes made some sections of the journey difficult.
«“The stretch from Nairobi to Mombasa was particularly challenging because of traffic and the lack of cycling lanes. We appeal to the government to consider providing safer spaces for cyclists.”»
The charity bikeathon is the second initiative of its kind organized by current and former Starehe students to mobilize support for learners in the two institutions.
More than 15 students and former students participated in this year’s cycling challenge, while sponsors and partners provided support throughout the journey, including refreshments and logistical assistance.
Vivo Energy representative Sarah Mucina said the company was proud to support an initiative focused on education and young people, noting that investing in students contributes to building the next generation of leaders.
The organizers are now appealing to Kenyans, corporates and other well-wishers to contribute towards the remaining amount and help ensure that students at Starehe Boys’ and Girls’ schools have the support they need to pursue their education.
