Kagimu spearheads team Uganda in the Grand Nairobi Bike Race

Charles Kagimu will spearhead a determined Ugandan cycling contingent as they seek to make their presence felt in the fifth Jubilee Live Free Race – Powered by The Grand Nairobi Bike Race, starting at the Nyayo Stadium on Sunday.

The Ugandan team comprises 100 cyclists participating in this year's championship, which has drawn more than 3,500 competitors representing over 20 countries worldwide. This event stands as Kenya's largest cycling initiative, welcoming cyclists of every skill level to participate.

Defending champion Kagimu will lead Uganda’s charge in the main 75km race and the Individual Time Trial Races while the other riders will compete in the 45km Black Mamba (ordinary bikes), in the event that also has Para Cyclists (45km), Family Fun Ride (15 km), and 1km kids’ race.

Jubilee Life Insurance Chief Distribution Officer Linda Byaruhanga (in spects-center) poses with some of the cyclists before they left for Nairobi at Lubiri Gardens, October 3, 2025. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

Winners across all the competitive categories will share out sh107.3m prize money. Jubilee Holdings, the principal sponsor, has contributed sh563.2m to this year's event to enhance its influence and accessibility. The Jubilee Live Free Race stands as a yearly cycling celebration also known for advancing a cycling culture whilst addressing significant social challenges.

Fresh from competing alongside elite cyclers from around the world in the prestigious 2025 International Cycling Union (UCI) Road World Cycling Championship in Rwanda last month the other riders like Paul Miro, Hatim Kagaba, Lawrence Lorot, Shafik Mugalu, Trinitah Namukasa, Mary Aleper and Miria Nantumbwe among others are also expected to compete favourably in the different categories.

Other Ugandan riders Jordan Ssekanwagi, Paul Muria and Kagimu have previous won in the different categories and are expected to feature prominently.

The Ugandan riders were flagged off to the event on Friday by Jubilee Life Insurance Chief Distribution Officer Linda Byaruhanga at the Sanyuka Restaurant located at the Lubiri gardens, in Mengo.

Byaruhanga said as part of their sponsorship, this year's edition will focus on improving mobility through the provision of prosthetic limbs for children who have undergone amputations at the Katalemwa Cheshire Home whilst promoting environmental responsibility via the establishment of food towers in local schools.

“Sport has a unique power to bring people together, inspire action, and shape healthier habits. As our cyclists fly the national flag, we wish them the very best in the race. Through the Jubilee Live Free Race, we are not only celebrating cycling but also promoting active, healthy lifestyles while encouraging individuals to prioritize their physical and mental wellbeing,” said Byaruhanga.

She also noted the similarity between cycling and financial planning, highlighting discipline, consistency, and foresight, and expressed delight in having a Ugandan team represented at the event.

“We are thrilled to have a team representing us for the third consecutive year. We are proud to note that our team consistently secures podium finishes, and we are optimistic that this year will be no different. Beyond competition, this is a fantastic opportunity to come together through sport, to engage with communities, and to make financial planning both accessible and relatable for everyone.”

Moonlight events’ Lance Ismail Ssebayigga who led the delegation to Kenya said Ugandan cyclists have been competing regularly and performing well in the different categories and he expects more of the same while Uganda Cycling Association president Sam Mahaba Muwonge urged the cyclists to maintain their discipline throughout the duration of the event.