Uganda launches longest-ever cycling race to support refugee children
The seven-day, 800-kilometer race scheduled for December 7–14, is designed to raise support for vulnerable refugee children in northern Uganda, particularly those who walk long distances to access education.
Konge-Lukuli Rotary Club President Alex Agaba (left) joins fellow Rotarians and cyclists at the launch of the Cycle For Hope fundraising race on October 7, 2025. Photo: Silvano Kibuuka)
A landmark cycling event dubbed Cycle For Hope has officially been launched, set to become the longest cycling race ever held in Uganda.
The seven-day, 800-kilometer race scheduled for December 7–14, is designed to raise support for vulnerable refugee children in northern Uganda, particularly those who walk long distances to access education.
Organized by the Rotary Club of Konge-Lukuli (District 9214) in partnership with Hope Field Children and Women Ministry, the initiative will benefit students within the Rhino Refugee Settlement by providing 60 Buffalo bicycles to ease their commute to school.
Elite cyclists Jordan Sekanwagi, winner of the 2025 Grand Nairobi Bike Race, and Olympian Charles Kagimu, the reigning continental team time trial champion, will headline the race. They will be joined by seven other elite riders and sponsor teams, competing across seven stages.
Cyclist Willy Kato during the launch of the 800km Cycle For Hope race at Makindye Forest Park. Photo: Silvano Kibuuka
“This project is about restoring hope,” said Konge-Lukuli Rotary President Alex Agaba. “As Rotarians, we support vulnerable communities in education, health, and sanitation. You never know who these young people will become in the future.”
Project coordinator Mathias Lukwago emphasized the race’s long-term impact: Cycle For Hope offers a practical, low-cost solution that delivers immediate benefits. Supporting this initiative means helping 60 young people access education, improve their health, and gain cycling skills that could shape their future.
Sekanwagi, based at the Iten Sports Camp in Kenya, expressed his enthusiasm: “Kagimu and I have always wanted to give back to the community. This race is a perfect opportunity.”
Other elite riders include Brenda Sikoya, Mary Aleper, Lukuman Magoba, Musilimu Kiwanuka, Kuzairu Nsubuga, Abdu Lubega, and Willy Kato, winner of the local category at the Grand Nairobi Bike Race.
The race will span seven stages named after Ugandan landmarks: Nile Stage (Kampala to Jinja), Elgon Stage (Jinja to Mbale), Awoja Stage (Mbale to Soroti), Ngetta Stage (Soroti to Lira), Murchison Stage (Lira to Pakwaki), Albert Nile Stage (Pakwaki to Arua), and Rhino Stage (Arua to Rhino Camp).
“We’ll also dedicate a day to training beneficiaries on how to use the bicycles,” Lukwago added.
Sponsors of the event include Crisis Response Network, Minet, Africa Global Logistics, Buffalo Bikes, World Bicycle Relief, Konge-Lukuli Rotary Club, Rotary Uganda, and Uganda Police Club.