Busia County has officially flagged off the final preparations for the 6th cross-border run with a large-scale tree planting exercise ahead of the main event slated for Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Busia Vocational Training Centre.
According to the event organiser Collins Odera, all logistical and security measures have been put in place to ensure the event’s success.
Adera stated that the 15-kilometer cross-country race will see runners cross into Uganda before returning to Kenya for the finish, symbolising unity and cooperation between the two countries.
The 5 km and 10 km races will be held within designated grounds at the venue.
‘The aim of the run is to identify and nurture upcoming athletes. That is why we are involving institutions to scout talents from schools, colleges and universities,’ he said.
Cross Border Run founder Johnrich Ekasiba said that the event goes beyond athletics, focusing on long-term community impact through environmental conservation and social cohesion.
‘We are planting trees for the future. So far, we have covered 30 kilometres in Kenya from Korinda Prison and will extend the exercise into Uganda. We have mobilised over 10,000 students to continue the initiative across markets, schools and churches,’ he said.
Ekasiba added that the Foundation’s thematic areas include Kenya-Uganda unity, health and wellness, talent development and environmental conservation.
The annual event has attracted 1,000 athletes from Kenya and Uganda, and it aims at promoting environmental conservation, healthy living and talent development.
International scouts are also expected to attend in search of emerging talents.
“This year’s run is themed Transforming Footsteps into Conservation Action. Participants will take part in 15 km, 10 km and 5km races, all geared towards raising awareness on ecosystem restoration in the border region.
As part of buildup activities, organisers led by the Osiya Foundation planted more than 20,000 seedlings along Busia-Mumias Road between Korinda and Munami.
Additionally, 5,000 grafted mango seedlings were distributed to 22 schools along the route.
The tree planting exercise brought together leaders from both Kenya and Uganda, including Uganda’s Deputy Resident District Commissioner Abdul Nasser, Nambale Assistant County Commissioner Sheila Lang’at and Kenya Forest Service Western Regional Commissioner Stephen M. Chessa.
The event will also feature a free medical camp where health workers from Busia County Referral Hospital and other facilities will attend to residents with various ailments.
By Salome Alwanda
