In Nairobi, a growing community of female bikers is challenging traditional stereotypes and promoting road safety. The Inked Sisterhood, formed in 2017, has become one of Kenya’s fastest-growing female biker groups, with over 100 members from diverse professional backgrounds, including scientists, lawyers, and civil servants.
The group was initially established as a way to connect women who felt outnumbered on the road, but it has evolved into a camaraderie built around solidarity and safety. Members come from various walks of life, united by their passion for motorcycling. According to Lucy Monyenye, an advocate of the High Court of Kenya and a long-time rider, the group has been officially registered to ensure continuity and institutional memory.
Through the Inked Sisterhood, women are embracing motorcycling as a symbol of independence and an escape from their corporate jobs. The group also serves as a source of social and emotional support, with members visiting each other’s families during difficult times and organizing social events. For some, the hobby provides a means of personal empowerment, as scientist Kisianan Kenana notes, “When I sit on a motorbike, I feel powerful.”
Despite the growth of female biker communities, stereotypes remain a significant hurdle. Many people assume that female bikers are slower, less capable, and more prone to fatigue than their male counterparts. However, members of the Inked Sisterhood are working to dispel these misconceptions, with some even surpassing their male counterparts in terms of skill and dedication.
The group’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, with a growing shift in masculine preconceptions about women’s motorcycle groups. Michael Othieno, a tax consultant and motorbike enthusiast, notes that women seek out training more frequently and have become highly skilled riders. The Inked Sisterhood is also contributing to the wider community by promoting road safety and organizing events such as charity rides, tree planting sessions, and mixed-gender campaigns.
As the Inked Sisterhood continues to grow and thrive, its members are paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive motorcycling community in Kenya. By challenging stereotypes and promoting road safety, the group is making a positive impact on the community and inspiring others to join them on the road. With their dedication and passion for motorcycling, the Inked Sisterhood is proving that women can be just as skilled and capable as men on two wheels.
