The County Government of Trans Nzoia, through the Department of Education and Vocational Training has hosted 33 cyclists under the Great Africa Cycling Safari, a 55-day tour across East Africa covering more than 6,000 kilometres through Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi. This being the third edition of the safari.
Trans Nzoia County Secretary Truphosa Amere praised the initiative, linking the cycling event to environmental conservation and skills development.
“This safari is about more than sport. It is about tree planting, biodiversity protection and sustainable land use. At the same time, it reminds us of the importance of technical skills for our youth,” she said.
Ms Amere described Trans Nzoia as a key ecological and economic hub.
The county hosts Mt Elgon and Cherangani Hills, which are vital water towers for Kenya and the region.
“As the breadbasket of Kenya, we must harness our natural resources responsibly while advancing regional integration and equipping our people with practical skills,” she said.
What is Great Africa Cycling Safari about?
Safari Coordinator Julius Mwendwa said the Great Africa Cycling Safari promotes unity and food security.
He further noted that it aims to strengthen East African integration by breaking artificial boundaries.
“We are also profiling lesser-known tourism sites and highlighting food security challenges. Trans Nzoia, as a food basket, is central to this message,” Mwendwa explained.
Additionally, Trans Nzoia Education and Vocational Training county executive Janerose Mutama emphasized youth empowerment through training.
She noted that Africans are one people hence borders should not divide us.
“Our youth face similar challenges across East Africa. Vocational training gives them hands-on skills to fight idleness, create jobs and strengthen unity,” Mutama said.
How Great Africa Cycling Safari supports inter-country cooperation
Trans Nzoia Director of Vocational Training Eliud Lusweti added that the visit was part of broader inter-country cooperation.
The cyclists are expected to journey towards Uasin Gishu through the Namanga boarder into Tanzania.
“This is more than sport; it is about youth development, education and cross-border collaboration. Vocational centers here are already giving young people practical skills in trades, sports and other activities to prepare them for the job market across the East Africa Community,” he noted.
