Kwale: Kwale County is gearing up to host the 2025 Confederation of African Cycling (CAC) Road Cycling African Championships, a premier continental sporting event set to run from November 19 to 23. The three-day competition will bring together elite cyclists from at least 20 African countries and beyond, celebrating athletic excellence, youth energy, and unity through cycling.
According to Kenya News Agency, Governor Fatuma Achani confirmed during a stakeholders' meeting at the County Headquarters that preparations are in top gear, with enhanced security and improved infrastructure to ensure the smooth running of the event. Achani emphasized that the championship places Kwale at the heart of continental sports tourism and expressed commitment to delivering a seamless and memorable experience for visitors, athletes, and spectators. She urged everyone across the county and nation to join in experiencing this moment.
The Governor also announced temporary traffic adjustments, including the removal of speed bumps and closure of selected roads that will be used during the races. Affected routes include Lotfa Beach Road, sections of the Mombasa-Lungalunga Highway, ABSA Beach Road, Mvindeni Beach Road, and Kwale-Kombani road. These measures are part of the comprehensive preparation plan aimed at ensuring the event's success.
Governor Achani expressed optimism that the event would boost tourism and business in the region, thanking the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports for choosing Kwale as the second Kenyan host of the continental championship, following Eldoret County's successful hosting of the tournament in 2024. She also invited visitors to explore Kwale's unique attractions, such as the rare sable antelopes, highlighting the county's natural heritage.
Principal Secretary for Sports Elijah Mwangi commended the county's high level of preparedness, reaffirming the national government's full support for the coordination and success of the event. National Cycling Union CEO, Kelvin Mwangi, encouraged Kwale residents to turn up in large numbers to cheer on the cyclists and embrace the culture of fitness, emphasizing the health benefits of cycling and its role in promoting a healthy lifestyle.
The 2025 CAC Championships are expected to leave a legacy on Kwale, enhancing its visibility on the African sports map while promoting local culture, economic growth, and community unity.