Kenyan Rider Completes 18,000km Africa Journey to Champion Visa-Free Travel

A Kenyan motorcyclist has completed a 43-day, 18,000-kilometre journey across East and Southern Africa, using the expedition to promote visa-free movement across the continent.

Wako Hassan Boru set off from Nairobi on 24 August 2025 with basic tools and spare parts, riding through Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Malawi, Mozambique, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini and South Africa. The self-funded journey was undertaken in partnership with One People Africa, an organisation that advocates for greater continental integration.

The early stages of the ride were relatively straightforward, supported by familiar road networks in East Africa. Difficulties emerged at border crossings, where Hassan encountered administrative delays, fees and procedural requirements. He said the contrast between these obstacles and the hospitality he experienced within communities along the route was striking.

In South Africa, Hassan rode through all nine provinces, a milestone he described as unprecedented for a Kenyan rider. He praised the quality of the country’s road infrastructure and said the distance travelled was worthwhile. While in Cape Town, he reflected on reaching the edge of the continent after navigating numerous internal borders. He also visited the grave of Nelson Mandela in Gqeberha, describing the visit as a significant personal moment.

The journey included demanding terrain. The Sani Pass between South Africa and Lesotho tested both rider and motorcycle due to steep gradients and loose gravel. In Eswatini, Hassan arrived during the Reed Dance ceremony, where he met King Mswati III. He said the experience highlighted the cultural diversity encountered during the trip.

Mechanical problems posed serious risks to the expedition. In Zambia, a damaged front shock left him stranded until other riders arranged a replacement part at no cost. In Namibia, he ran out of fuel in a remote desert area and was assisted by a passing tour vehicle. Hassan said these incidents demonstrated the support and cooperation within the African motorcycling community.

Throughout the journey, riders from several countries monitored his progress through messaging groups, escorted him through unfamiliar areas and provided accommodation and meals. Hassan said the cooperation showed that cross-border collaboration among ordinary citizens often moves faster than formal policy frameworks.

He said the repeated visa and border procedures reinforced his view that travel restrictions continue to limit movement and trade across the continent, despite strong people-to-people connections. Hassan plans to travel to Mecca later this year to perform Umrah, accompanied by riders from Mozambique and West Africa. 

In 2027, he intends to undertake a westward journey to Senegal and Cape Verde, upgrading to a 1,250cc motorcycle to support long-distance travel.