Jubilee Insurance, in partnership with the Grand Nairobi Bike Race (GNBR), has officially launched the third edition of the highly anticipated Jubilee Live Free Race. Scheduled for Sunday, September 29, 2024, this premier international cycling event will bring together up to 2,500 elite cyclists from 21 countries, including Ethiopia, Eritrea, the USA, France, and the East African Community, for a high-stakes competition in the heart of Nairobi City.
The event aims to harness the freedom inherent in cycling to raise awareness about practical steps individuals and communities can take to lead well-rounded lives. Discussions will focus on the importance of prioritizing health, financial planning, and demystifying insurance, emphasizing its role in safeguarding wellness, managing risks, and fostering wealth growth. Additionally, the event will highlight the importance of adopting sustainable practices to protect the environment.
In a world increasingly dominated by challenges such as climate change, pollution, health crises, and financial instability, the need for sustainable lifestyles and sound financial management has never been more urgent. A joint 2023 report by the World Health Organization and the World Bank revealed that over one billion people—about 14% of the global population—suffer from exorbitant healthcare costs, pushing approximately 1.3 billion individuals, including 300 million already in extreme poverty, into deeper financial hardship. This alarming situation underscores the importance of initiatives that promote financial literacy, health, and wellness across Kenya and the East African region.
The third edition of the Jubilee Live Free Race aligns with Jubilee Insurance’s thematic campaign, “There’s Living and There’s Living Free,” which aims to empower individuals by enhancing their understanding of investment and insurance solutions. As the title sponsor for the third consecutive year, Jubilee Insurance is investing KES 20 million into the event—KES 10 million in cash and KES 10 million in advertising and promotion. Since the partnership began in 2022, Jubilee Insurance has contributed KES 60 million to this exhilarating event.
Speaking at the announcement of the 2024 edition, Caroline Ndungu, Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at Jubilee Insurance, emphasized the company’s commitment to empowering people to live life to the fullest. “Our brand promise is centered on enabling people to live free, and this event naturally ties in with that vision. We are excited about the third edition, not only for the platform it provides for competition and fun but also for its role in fostering conversations that inspire behavioral change and drive meaningful societal impact. 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.”
Building on last year’s success, the 2024 Jubilee Live Free Race will feature six thrilling categories, including the flagship 60 km main race, a 12 km family fun ride, the popular 48 km Black Mamba ride, a 2 km kiddies’ race, a 48 km para-cycling race, and a 60 km team race for groups of six riders. The race will kick off at Nyayo Stadium, weaving through Uhuru Highway and other designated routes. Detailed route information will be provided to participants upon registration.
Juan Cazcarra, Group Chief Operating Officer at Jubilee Insurance, expressed confidence in the event’s potential to strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders who share the company’s vision. “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 help people lead healthier, more sustainable, and financially secure lives.”
Dr. Julius Kipngetich, Group Chief Executive Officer at Jubilee Insurance, described the event as an exciting time for cycling enthusiasts and families alike. “We are proud to host the 2024 edition and leverage it to contribute to issues of both national and global significance. 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.”
Loise Wachira, Director at Grand Nairobi Bike Race, highlighted the event’s impact on the cycling community and society at large. “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 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.”
John Cheboi, Chief Corporate Communications Officer at the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), expressed his support for the event. “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.”
