Jubilee Insurance and the Grand Nairobi Bike Race have launched the third edition of the Jubilee Live Free Race, scheduled for September 29, 2024. The event will feature 2,500 elite cyclists from 21 countries including the US and France competing in Nairobi City.

The company said this year's edition race will feature six categories including the flagship 60km main race, a 12km family fun ride, the popular 48km black mamba ride, 2km kiddies’ race, a 48km para-cycling race, and 60km team race for teams of six riders.

"We look forward to raising the profile of this event with the ambition of transforming it into a Tour de Kenya, reflecting our commitment to its continued growth and impact," said Caroline Ndungu, Group Head of Marketing, Jubilee Insurance, during the announcement of the 2024 edition.

The event is expected to attract elite cyclists from Ethiopia, Eritrea, the USA, France, and the East African Community.

According to Jubilee Insurance, the event will harness the freedom inherent in cycling to raise awareness about practical steps that individuals and the broader community can take for a well-rounded life.

This will include conversations on the importance of prioritizing health and financial planning while demystifying insurance and its role in safeguarding wellness, managing risk, and growing wealth. Additionally, it will drive discussions on how embracing sustainable practices can protect the environment.

With climate change, pollution, health challenges, and financial instability dominating headlines worldwide, the need for sustainable practices, healthier lifestyles, and sound financial management has never been more critical.

A joint 2023 report by the World Health Organization and World Bank revealed that more than one billion people—about 14 percent of the global population—experienced large out-of-pocket payments for healthcare that approximately 1.3 billion individuals were pushed or further pushed into poverty, including 300 million people who were already living in extreme poverty.

This alarming reality affects individuals in Kenya and across the East African region. Beyond health expenditure, the Global Findex Report also reveals that only 41 percent of adults in East Africa are financially resilient, underscoring the importance of initiatives that promote financial literacy, health, wellness and stability.

The third Jubilee Live Free Race comes at a time when Jubilee Insurance has just launched its thematic campaign, "There’s Living and There’s Living Free," which seeks to meet individuals at their point of need by enhancing their understanding of investment and insurance solutions.

Jubilee Insurance's sponsorship of the Grand Nairobi Bike Race aligns with the company's strategic focus and commitment to empower individuals unlock their desired future. For the third consecutive year, Jubilee Insurance will be the title sponsor, investing a total of Kes20 million into the event—Kes10 million in cash and an additional Kes10 million in advertising and promotion.

Since the partnership began in 2022, Jubilee Insurance has contributed Kes60 million to this event. The race will kick off at Nyayo Stadium, weaving through Uhuru Highway and other designated routes. Detailed route map information will be provided to participants upon registration.

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Juan Cazcarra, Group Chief Operating Officer at Jubilee Insurance said, “As a company committed to making a difference, the Jubilee Live Free Race aligns with our broader goals of promoting health, sustainability, and financial wellness. We are confident that the 2024 edition will strengthen our partnerships with key stakeholders who share our vision, while also helping people lead healthier, more sustainable, and financially secure lives.”

Dr. Julius Kipngetich, Group CEO at Jubilee Insurance added, “It’s an opportunity for us to engage with our community while addressing critical challenges through our shared commitment to health, sustainability, and positive change.”

On her part, Loise Wachira, Director at Grand Nairobi Bike Race highlighted that the Jubilee Live Free Race has not only significantly elevated the profile of the cycling sport but also contributed to making the world a better place by fostering community engagement and addressing pressing societal issues.

“The last two editions of the Jubilee Live Free Race have made a significant impact, and this year, we are excited to present an even more thrilling event. This year’s race will not only offer cyclists a chance to showcase their skills and be recognized for their achievements but also provide families with memorable opportunities to bond and participate in engaging activities. We look forward to further engaging our communities as we continue our efforts to make a positive contribution towards making the world a better place,” said Loise.

John Cheboi, Chief Corporate Communications Officer at Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) said, “It has been an enriching experience collaborating with Jubilee Insurance and the Grand Nairobi Bike Race over the past two years. We fully support what this race represents and the values it promotes, and we are committed to continuing our support to ensure its ongoing success.”