More than 1,000 Kenyans turned out at Karura Forest on Saturday for the second edition of Run 4 Seniors, a charity event aimed at raising funds and awareness to improve the welfare of vulnerable older persons across the country.
The growing participation reflected increasing public support for ensuring that Kenya’s senior citizens age with dignity through improved access to food, healthcare and social support.
Organised by Mama Ibado Charity, the annual event raises resources to support older persons, particularly in Isiolo and Kakamega counties, where the organisation runs feeding, healthcare and community welfare programmes.
Speaking during the event, Mama Ibado Charity President Ahmed Jibril said the large turnout demonstrated that more Kenyans were embracing the responsibility of caring for older members of society.
“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,” Jibril said.
He noted that supporting older persons requires collaboration between individuals, corporate organisations, government institutions and development partners.
“Every runner here is helping to restore dignity and hope to older persons who have contributed immensely to our society and deserve to age with care, respect and dignity,” he added.
Organisers Laud Growing Support
Run 4 Seniors Chairman Moses Mwangi thanked participants, sponsors and partners for helping transform the event into one of Kenya’s fastest-growing charity runs.
“We are grateful to everyone who came out to support this important cause. The commitment shown by our sponsors and partners has enabled us to expand our impact and encourage more organisations to invest in programmes that improve the lives of Kenya’s ageing population,” Mwangi said.
He emphasized the need to honour senior citizens by ensuring they receive adequate care and support.
“Our seniors helped build the Kenya and the communities we enjoy today. The least we can do is ensure they are fed, cared for and treated with the dignity they deserve,” he said.
Races Promote Healthy Ageing and Social Inclusion
This year’s Run 4 Seniors featured 5-kilometre, 10-kilometre and 15-kilometre race categories, attracting families, corporate teams, fitness enthusiasts and community groups united in promoting healthy ageing and social inclusion.
Sponsors Reaffirm Commitment
Event sponsors reaffirmed their commitment to improving the welfare of older persons through long-term partnerships and community investment.
Sidian Bank Chief Executive Officer John Okulo said the institution’s support goes beyond fundraising to advocating for better healthcare, nutrition, psychosocial support and sustainable livelihoods for older Kenyans.
“These causes are close to our hearts, and we will continue supporting initiatives that create meaningful and lasting impact,” Okulo said.
KCB Foundation Director Mendi Njonjo said the foundation would continue working with Mama Ibado Charity to expand support for vulnerable senior citizens.
“We remain committed to ensuring that more older Kenyans receive the care and support they deserve as the initiative continues to grow,” Njonjo said.
Fly748.com Head of Scheduled Services George Oduor said the airline was proud to support an initiative that celebrates and uplifts older persons.
“The growing number of participants shows that more Kenyans are embracing the shared responsibility of caring for older persons, and we are proud to be part of this movement,” Oduor said.
Supporting Older Persons Across Kenya
Run 4 Seniors is organised annually by Mama Ibado Charity, a non-profit organisation registered in Kenya and Canada that supports vulnerable senior citizens through feeding, healthcare and social welfare programmes.
The organisation currently serves more than 1,000 beneficiaries in Isiolo and Kakamega counties, helping older persons access nutritious meals, healthcare services and social support to enable them to age with dignity.
