Michael Panther, founder of Hope Mobility, made history on Sunday, October 25, 2026, by becoming the first person with a disability to complete the full 42km course at the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon. He finished the marathon in an impressive 3 hours and 45 minutes, using his specialized racing wheelchair, affectionately known as the "Red Ferrari." This remarkable achievement was part of his Race for Mobility fundraising drive.
The Race for Mobility campaign successfully raised Ksh 5 million, which will be used to fund approximately 100 custom-fitted pediatric wheelchairs for Kenyan children. Each wheelchair costs around KSh 50,000 to produce. The initiative aims to address the estimated 200,000-child deficit in assistive mobility devices in Kenya. By using sports to drive inclusion and community support, Panther's campaign seeks to make a significant impact on the lives of children with disabilities.
The funds raised will have an immediate impact on the lives of children with disabilities. Hope Mobility Kenya currently manufactures and distributes around 3,500 wheelchairs annually to persons with disabilities nationwide. With the additional funding, the organization will be able to provide more children with the mobility aids they need to access education and lead normal lives.
According to data from the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, there is a nationwide shortfall of 550,000 assistive mobility devices, including 200,000 required specifically for children. Panther's achievement and fundraising efforts highlight the urgent need for community support to address this shortage. His campaign aims to encourage corporate partners, businesses, and individuals to contribute to the Race for Mobility initiative.
After completing the marathon, Panther expressed his gratitude to the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon for facilitating his participation and to all those who donated to the cause. He also thanked those who cheered him on along the way, saying their support means a fraction of children with disabilities will have a chance to access education and lead normal lives.
Panther described the marathon as the hardest he has ever done, particularly due to the elevations, which made it difficult for him to feel his hands. Despite the challenges, he persevered and completed the course, demonstrating his determination and resilience. His achievement serves as an inspiration to others with disabilities and highlights the importance of inclusivity in sports.
Hope Mobility Kenya continues to invite corporate partners, businesses, and individuals to contribute to the Race for Mobility campaign. The organization's goal is to narrow the assistive device deficit for children across Kenya. With ongoing support, Hope Mobility Kenya aims to make a lasting impact on the lives of children with disabilities and promote inclusivity in the community.
Key points
- Michael Panther completed the 42km Stanchart Nairobi Marathon in 3 hours and 45 minutes.
- The Race for Mobility campaign raised Ksh 5 million to fund pediatric wheelchairs.
- Kenya faces a shortage of 200,000 assistive mobility devices for children.
