Over a thousand participants gathered at Kids Pioneer School in Entebbe on Sunday, September 8th, for the 10th edition of the Kids of Africa Run.
This year, the event was sponsored by I&M Bank Uganda, with the aim of raising awareness and promoting the use of reusable sanitary pads to keep girls in school.
The run featured various categories, including 5km, 10km, 21km races, and a 21km bicycle race. Runners from all walks of life participated, united by a common goal of making a positive impact on the lives of young girls.
“Today, we had a fantastic turnout,” said Esbern Budolfsen, the Deputy National Director of Kids of Africa. “This event is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a step towards a brighter future for countless young girls. By highlighting reusable sanitary pads, we’re addressing a barrier that prevents girls from staying in school and reaching their full potential.”
I&M Bank, a long-time supporter of the Kids of Africa Run, expressed their commitment to the cause. “We are proud to once again support the Kids of Africa Run,” said Racheal Kulanyi, the Communications and Outreach Officer at I&M Bank. “Our partnership with this run aligns with our commitment to supporting community-driven initiatives that make a positive impact.”
The proceeds from the run will go to Days for Girls, an NGO dedicated to eliminating the stigma and barriers related to improving menstrual health, education, and livelihoods for women and girls.
The main event of the day saw Kevin Cheptoek from Kapchorwa emerge as the winner of the men’s 21km race, with a time of 1:07:11.4. In the women’s 21km category, Ella claimed the top spot with a time of 1:07:18.3.
Other winners included Daniel Comboni in the men’s 10km race and Sylvia Chelangat in the women’s 10km.
Jaffer Fadhil and Shida Leni won the men’s and women’s 5km races, respectively.