Running for the future

In the scenic foothills of Mount Elgon, a groundbreaking partnership between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Joshua Cheptegei Development Foundation will bring to life a desire to shape a better future.

On November 2, the second edition of the Elgon Half Marathon will bring together athletes, conservationists, and community champions to tackle pressing issues affecting the region and the globe at large.

Uganda’s world-class athlete, the World and Olympic champion Joshua Cheptegei, founder of the Joshua Cheptegei Development Foundation, together with other elite athletes from the region, will highlight the event. 

Top athletes expected at the event include Olympic Steeplechase champion Peruth Chemutai, Commonwealth and World Champion in Marathon Victor Kiplangat.

In an interview on October 1, he said: “As athletes, we understand the importance of a healthy environment and strong communities. This marathon is a platform to drive positive change and inspire a new generation of leaders.”

This buttresses what he said at the launch of the run in Kampala on September 18: “I want to emphasize that this marathon is more than just a feat of endurance, it is a call to action that we must conserve and protect our environment, preserve our natural heritage, and promote sustainable livelihoods.”

“Gender-based violence undermines the progress that we strive for. Through this marathon we are promoting inclusivity, empowering women and girls, and fostering a culture of respect. Together we can make a difference,” Mr Cheptegei added.

In a vote of confidence in the run and in the athlete, the UNDP Resident Representative Nwanne Obahor, said: “Joshua Cheptegei is using his talent for his community. It is important to appreciate that as he runs, he runs with so many people. I am so happy that we can accompany him as he carries his community with him.”

The Elgon Half Marathon is more than just a sporting event – it’s a call to action for environmental stewardship and improving the livelihoods of our communities. The route winds through the lush Mbale City suburbs and into the streets, highlighting the region’s breathtaking biodiversity.

The Run is committed to creating a safe and inclusive space for all participants. A dedicated women’s category aims to empower female athletes and raise awareness about gender-based violence.

UNDP and the Joshua Cheptegei Development Foundation will collaborate with local organizations to provide support services for survivors and advocate for policy changes addressing GBV. They will also promote clean energy initiatives, reducing carbon emissions and supporting sustainable livelihoods for local communities.

The event will showcase Mt. Elgon’s unique ecosystem, home to over 300 bird species, 250 tree species, and rare primates. By promoting eco-tourism and sustainable land management, the marathon aims to: support conservation efforts, enhance community livelihoods, foster climate resilience, and end gender based violence.

Some of the partners for the Run are TotalEnergies, Stanbic Bank, Kima Cement, Infinix, Uganda Athletics Federation, Amref Health Africa, NFA, UWA, Uganda Airlines, Nile Breweries, Nivana, UNIDO, NEMA, UTB, Spotlight Initiative, Nation Media Group, Vision Group, NBS Sport,  and UBC.

Register now for the Elgon Half Marathon and be part of a historic event uniting athletes, conservationists, and community champions.

Event Details:

Registration link: bit.ly/elgonhalfmarathon

Date: November 2, 2024

Location: Mbale City, Eastern Uganda

Distance: 21km (Half Marathon), 10km, 5km

Categories: Men, Women, children, etc

Together, let’s run for the future – a future where conservation, clean energy, and social justice thrive.