By Shadrack Nyakoe
The second edition of the LOOP Safari Gravel Series was officially launched today at Karura Forest, ushering in what promises to be an exciting year for Kenya’s cycling enthusiasts.
Organized by the Amani Project in partnership with LOOP Digital Financial Services (LOOP DFS), the series aims is aimed at nurturing cycling talent and elevating Kenya’s position as a top global cycling destination.
The four-leg 2025 series will start off at Tatu City on February 1st, Machakos on March 8th, Naivasha on June 15th and conclude with the final leg at Vipingo on August 23rd.
Participants will compete in three race categories including 120 Km LOOP, 60 Km LOOP and 20 Km LOOP designed to cater to the professional, recreational and amateur cyclists.
The Naivasha event will once again be a qualifier for the prestigious International Cycling Union (UCI) Gravel World Series, solidifying Kenya’s position as a premier global cycling destination.
Organised by the Amani Project in partnership with LOOP Digital Financial Services (LOOP DFS), the series aims is to create a cycling culture among communities, nurture cycling talent and elevate Kenya’s position as a top global cycling destination.
Speaking during the launch, Eric Muriuki, CEO of LOOP DFS, emphasized LOOP’s commitment to both growing the standards of cycling in the country and as part of its broader vision to enhance lifestyles.
Speaking during the launch, Eric Muriuki, CEO of LOOP DFS, emphasized LOOP’s commitment to growing the standards of cycling in the country and, as part of its broader vision, to enhance lifestyles for all Africans.
“As LOOP, we are proud to continue our partnership with the Amani Project as title sponsors of the LOOP Safari Gravel Series, providing a platform that not only nurtures cycling talent but also positions Kenya as a world-class cycling destination. Besides being a sport, cycling is a lifestyle and more-so, a story of resilience, determination, that promotes community values that resonate deeply with us at LOOP.”
Amani Project’s Joy Mungai expressed gratitude to LOOP for the strategic partnership noting it will go a long way in promoting the development of the sport in the region: “We are immensely grateful to LOOP for their continued support and investment in this series. Over the years, we have seen the impact of Cycling in transforming communities and inspiring young athletes.”
The LOOP Safari Gravel Series is therefore, a big boost to nurturing and creating opportunities for Kenyan cyclists to compete globally while also bringing people together to celebrate the beauty of our country.
“We encourage both cycling enthusiasts and families to join us in this adventure,” she added.
Kenya Cycling Federation Secretary General, Kelvin Mwangi, applauded the initiative, saying: “This series is a significant boost to Kenyan cycling. It not only gives professional cyclists a chance to showcase their skills but also inspires recreational riders and fans to engage in the sport. We commend LOOP and the Amani Project for their dedication to growing cycling in Kenya and look forward to seeing more Kenyans embrace this sport.”
Beyond Cycling, each event will feature an engaging LOOP village offering live music, games, and interactive activities for attendees of all ages. Additionally, as part of LOOP’s sustainability agenda, the series will also involve tree planting activities at each venue, contributing to the protection of Kenya’s natural ecosystems.
Eric Muriuki added, “We are committed to leaving a positive impact at every location we visit. We will therefore continue with our sustainability initiatives, such as tree planting, which align with our mission to create a better, greener future for generations to come.”