WHO WE ARE
About us
We use the power of the bike to build skills, confidence, and opportunity. Since 1998, hundreds of kids have trained with Safari Simbaz. But it’s not just about cycling. It’s about learning, growing, and building new perspectives.
2 operational training camps
The Simbaz run two active camps: one in Kikuyu, one in Naro Moru. Both are places to train, fix bikes, and using the bicycle to create opportunities and community.
20+ Alumni running their own businesses
Over 20 former Simbaz now run their own bike-related businesses – as mechanics, guides, or shop owners. What they started here, they took further on their own.
1 Grand Tour Winner mentored
Chris Froome trained with David Kinjah as a teenager. What began at the Simbaz became part of his story. Chris is still connected to the project today.
MEET THE FOUNDER
David Kinjah
Early years
Growing up riding old BMX bikes and fixing whatever he could get his hands on. Started riding seriously in 1994. First international races followed just a year later.
Pro careeer
Raced for Kenya at the Commonwealth Games, World Champs and All-Africa Games. Competed in major events like the Cape Epic and Crocodile Trophy.
Founder of Safari Simbaz
Started the project in 1998. Built two camps where kids learn to ride, fix bikes, and pick up skills for life.
Mentor to Chris Froome
Brought Chris into the Simbaz when he was 12. Their training years shaped Froome’s early career and they still stay in touch.
Long-term impact
Kinjah’s work has helped hundreds of young people find their path – on and off the bike.
Today
Based near Mount Kenya, Kinjah continues to run camps, train riders and grow the Safari Simbaz vision. You can find the location of the camps below.
From Kikuyu to the Champs-Élysées: Chris Froome’s Journey Began with the Simbaz
Long before he won the Tour de France four times, Chris Froome was a 13-year-old pedaling behind David Kinjah and the Safari Simbaz on the dusty trails of Kikuyu. Those early rides shaped not just his technique, but also the resilience and team spirit that would carry him to Grand Tour glory.
Founded in 1998 by Kenyan cycling legend David Kinjah, the Simbaz began on the red roads of Kikuyu, just outside Nairobi. What started as a few bikes and a big dream has grown into a full movement — building confidence, teaching skills, and creating real opportunity for the next generation. Today, the project runs from two camps.
Kikuyu
The original Kikuyu Camp, just 15km from Nairobi.
A humble but powerful place where many champions have trained, run by James Kito.
Naro Moru
The second Naro Moru Camp, set inside the beautiful Naro Moru River Lodge near Mt. Kenya where young riders are trained by David Kinjah.
