Cyprine Odada
Executive Director, Critical Mass Nairobi | Urban Mobility Expert | Advocate for Gender-Inclusive Transport
Cyprine Odada is a leading expert in sustainable urban mobility, with a dedicated focus on advancing gender-inclusive transport systems. As the Executive Director of Critical Mass Nairobi, she has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at creating safer, more equitable urban environments that prioritise the mobility needs of women, children, and marginalised groups.
Cyprine has been instrumental in developing a few groundbreaking initiatives including: Kenya Cycling Women, which empowers women through cycling as a sustainable mode of transport, and the Nairobi Bike Train, an innovative city-wide program designed to enhance safety and accessibility for cyclists in Nairobi through organised, community-led rides, Toto Mass Initiative, which advocates for safer urban spaces for children, emphasising the impact of the environment on their mental and physical health. These projects have not only encouraged more women to participate in cycling but have also promoted the use of bicycles as a viable, eco-friendly alternative in Nairobi’s congested streets.
In addition to her grassroots work, Cyprine brings over a decade of experience in urban mobility, policy advocacy, and stakeholder engagement. Under her leadership, Critical Mass Nairobi grew to become the largest cycling organisation in Africa for non-competitive cyclists. Her work spans both local and global contexts, where she actively contributes to discussions on sustainable transport and social justice.
Cyprine holds a Master’s degree in Project Planning and Management from the University of Nairobi and is pursuing an Executive Master’s in Cities at the London School of Economics. Her academic pursuits, combined with her practical experience, position her at the forefront of efforts to integrate gender perspectives into urban mobility planning. She is passionate about ensuring that women’s voices are central to urban transport policies, making her a powerful advocate for creating inclusive, equitable, and sustainable cities.
Selected speaking engagements
- Hamburg Sustainability Conference (HSC) – October 7-8, 2024
Role: Accelerator
Topic: Just Transition in Transport and Mobility – Hamburg Just Mobility Charter - Velo-city Conference 2024
Role: Speaker
Topic: Advancing Cycling as a Sustainable Mode of Transport - Urban 95 Conference 2024
Role: Speaker
Topic: Urban Design for Early Childhood and Mobility Solutions - Walk 21 Conference 2023
Role: Speaker
Topic: Pedestrian Safety and Inclusive Urban Mobility - International Transport Forum (ITF) 2023 & 2024
Role: Speaker
Topic: Gender-Inclusive Transport Systems and Sustainable Mobility - London School of Economics (LSE) Executive Master’s in Cities Program Events
Role: Participant/Speaker
Topic: Urban Mobility and Gender Inclusivity - Local and Regional Urban Mobility Forums in Nairobi
Role: Advocate
Topic: Promoting Safe, Inclusive Urban Spaces and Cycling Infrastructure
Awards and recognitions
- Young Leader in Sustainable Transport 2020 – Awarded by SLOCAT, you were recognised for your exceptional contributions to sustainable mobility, particularly your efforts in developing city-wide cycling networks and promoting active transport modes like walking and cycling across African cities.
- Women Mobilize Women Award – Recognised by the Women Mobilise Women initiative for your outstanding leadership in promoting gender-inclusive transport systems and empowering women through sustainable urban mobility efforts, particularly your work with initiatives like Kenya Cycling Women and Critical Mass Nairobi
- Spearheading Critical Mass Nairobi – As the Executive Director and Founder of Critical Mass Nairobi, your leadership in growing it into the largest non-competitive cycling organisation in Africa has earned wide recognition. This platform has been pivotal in advocating for sustainable urban mobility and gender inclusivity in Nairobi and beyond.