Eliud Kipchoge backs KSh100 million drive for pediatric wheelchairs

Two-time Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge supported the Race for Mobility campaign, urging the public to back efforts to raise KSh100 million for pediatric wheelchairs.

The initiative is led by Michael Panther, founder of Hope Mobility Kenya (HMK), who plans to complete the 42-kilometer course at the 2026 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon (SCNM) using a professional racing wheelchair.

Panther will be the first athlete competing with a disability to participate in the full 42-kilometer distance category at the annual Nairobi event.

During a meeting between the two, Kipchoge commended the initiative, noting that sports provide a broad platform for individuals living with disabilities to overcome physical and social barriers.

Funds raised will support HMK to fabricate and distribute custom-fitted wheelchairs using the World Health Organization (WHO) eight-step wheelchair service process. This framework ensures each device is properly assessed, adjusted, and maintained for long-term clinical safety.

The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) estimates that Kenya currently faces a national deficit of 550,000 mobility devices. Approximately 200,000 of these unfulfilled requests belong to children.

Each custom-fitted wheelchair manufactured through the campaign costs approximately KSh50,000.

Panther noted that providing appropriate assistive technology allows young users to access schools and healthcare facilities, while enabling caregivers to re-enter the workforce.

He will compete using a custom racing wheelchair christened the "Red Ferrari" to raise initial funds to purchase at least 200 pediatric units.

The organization seeks contributions of KSh1,000 per kilometer from individual supporters, alongside corporate backing to meet the total financial goal.