More than 1,000 registered participants converged at Karura Forest for the second edition of the Run 4 Seniors charity event, highlighting growing national commitment to improving the welfare, dignity and wellbeing of older persons across Kenya.
The annual event, organised by Mama Ibado Charity, brought together individuals, families, corporate organisations, fitness enthusiasts and community groups to raise funds and awareness for programmes that provide food, healthcare and social support to vulnerable senior citizens, particularly in Isiolo and Kakamega counties.
Speaking during the event, Mama Ibado Charity President Ahmed Jibril said the impressive turnout reflected increasing public recognition that caring for older persons is a shared responsibility requiring the support of individuals, businesses, government institutions and development partners.
“Today’s turnout is a powerful statement that Kenyans are choosing to stand with our senior citizens. It demonstrates that the conversation around the welfare of older persons is gaining momentum,” said Jibril.
He noted that every participant had contributed to restoring hope and dignity to elderly Kenyans who had played a significant role in building the nation and deserved quality care and respect in their later years.
Run 4 Seniors Chairman Moses Mwangi commended participants, sponsors and partners for supporting the initiative, saying their commitment had helped transform the event into one of Kenya’s fastest-growing charity sporting activities.
Mwangi said the increasing participation demonstrated that more Kenyans appreciated the importance of supporting older members of society through sustainable programmes that address their daily needs.
“Our seniors gave their lives building the Kenya and the communities we all enjoy today. The very least we can do is make sure they are fed, cared for and treated with the dignity they deserve,” he said.
This year’s edition featured 5-kilometre, 10-kilometre and 15-kilometre race categories, attracting participants of all ages and backgrounds in a collective effort to promote healthy ageing, social inclusion and community solidarity.
Corporate sponsors reaffirmed their commitment to supporting programmes that improve the quality of life of older persons.
Sidian Bank Chief Executive Officer John Okulo said the institution’s involvement extended beyond fundraising to championing greater awareness of issues affecting senior citizens.
“Beyond fundraising, Run 4 Seniors continues to advocate for greater attention to the needs of older persons, including access to healthcare, nutrition, psychosocial support and sustainable livelihoods,” said Okulo.
He affirmed that the bank would continue supporting initiatives that create lasting social impact and improve the lives of vulnerable elderly Kenyans.
KCB Foundation Director Mendi Njonjo also reiterated the organisation’s commitment to working with Mama Ibado Charity to expand programmes that ensure older persons receive the care, protection and support they deserve.
Fly748.com Head of Scheduled Services George Oduor said the airline was proud to support an initiative that recognises and uplifts older members of society.
“At Fly748.com, we believe businesses have a responsibility to create meaningful impact beyond their core operations. The growing number of participants demonstrates that more Kenyans are embracing the shared responsibility of caring for older persons, and we are proud to be part of this movement,” he said.
Run 4 Seniors is organised annually by Mama Ibado Charity, which implements feeding, healthcare and social welfare programmes targeting vulnerable older persons. The organisation currently supports about 1,000 beneficiaries in Isiolo and Kakamega counties and hopes to expand its reach through continued partnerships with corporate organisations, development partners and well-wishers.
By Michael Omondi
