Kisumu, Kenya is set to host the Confederation of African Cycling Championship from October 21 to 25, 2026. The event is expected to bring together more than 300 elite cyclists from over 30 African countries. The five-day continental competition will feature 15 race categories, with the action expected to be broadcast live across Kenya and to audiences internationally. This event presents an opportunity for Kisumu to showcase its tourism, hospitality, and business sectors.
Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the championship, stating that it would provide an economic boost to local businesses and young people. The arrival of cyclists is expected to create opportunities for hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality businesses. Additionally, young people can benefit from opportunities in event management, transport, catering, security, and other services required to support the championship.
The championship is projected to generate more than 1.8 million social media impressions and close to 90,000 engagements. Governor Nyong'o emphasized that the event would give Kisumu increased international visibility through live broadcasts and digital engagement. This exposure is expected to promote Kisumu as a destination for tourism, business, and sporting activities in western Kenya.
Kisumu's location on the shores of Lake Victoria and its role as a regional commercial centre provide a base for hospitality and tourism businesses serving visitors to the region. The cycling championship will complement these activities by bringing an international sporting audience to the county. Governor Nyong'o encouraged residents to participate in activities surrounding the championship through a social fun ride.
The social fun ride will be open to members of the public, allowing residents to participate in cycling activities alongside the elite championship. Governor Nyong'o thanked the Kenya Cycling Federation for selecting Kisumu to host the continental event, stating that the county is ready to welcome athletes and visitors.
The event is expected to generate activity for accommodation providers, restaurants, transport operators, event organisers, and other businesses involved in hosting visitors. For Kisumu, the championship will also provide an opportunity to promote the county as a venue for international sporting events while exposing its tourism and hospitality offerings to audiences beyond Kenya.
The championship will run from October 21 to 25, with cyclists from more than 30 African countries competing across 15 categories. Key stakeholders, including Governor Nyong'o and the Kenya Cycling Federation, are working together to ensure the success of the event, which promises to be a significant boost to Kisumu's economy and international profile.
Key points
- The event is expected to bring together more than 300 elite cyclists from over 30 African countries.
- The championship will feature 15 race categories and be broadcast live across Kenya and internationally.
- The event is projected to generate more than 1.8 million social media impressions and close to 90,000 engagements.
