A strong show of support for Kenya’s elderly population was witnessed at Karura Forest, where more than 1,000 registered participants took part in the second edition of the Run 4 Seniors charity event.
The gathering brought together individuals, families, corporate organisations and community groups united by a common goal of improving the lives of older persons across the country.
The annual event seeks to raise both funds and awareness for programmes that provide food, healthcare and social support to vulnerable senior citizens, particularly in Isiolo and Kakamega counties.
Organisers said the growing turnout reflects increasing public awareness about the challenges many elderly people face and the need for collective action to address them.
Mama Ibado Charity President Ahmed Jibril said the event highlighted a growing national commitment to ensuring that older persons are treated with dignity and receive the care they deserve.
He noted that supporting senior citizens should not be left to a few individuals or organisations but should involve communities, businesses, government institutions and development partners working together.
According to Jibril, the large number of participants showed that more Kenyans are becoming actively involved in conversations about the welfare of older persons. He said many senior citizens have made significant contributions to society throughout their lives and deserve respect, care and support as they grow older.
Run 4 Seniors Chairman Moses Mwangi praised participants, sponsors and partners for helping expand the initiative’s reach and impact.
He said their continued support has helped transform the event into one of Kenya’s fastest-growing charity sporting activities.Mwangi emphasized that older generations played a key role in building the communities and opportunities enjoyed today.
He said ensuring they have access to food, healthcare and social support is a responsibility that society should embrace.
The event featured 5-kilometre, 10-kilometre and 15-kilometre race categories, attracting participants from different age groups and backgrounds. Families, corporate teams and fitness enthusiasts joined the run to promote healthy ageing and social inclusion.
Sponsors also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting programmes that improve the welfare of senior citizens.
Sidian Bank Chief Executive Officer John Okulo said the initiative goes beyond fundraising by drawing attention to issues such as healthcare, nutrition, psychosocial support and sustainable livelihoods for older persons.
KCB Foundation Director Mendi Njonjo said the organisation remains committed to supporting efforts that ensure more elderly Kenyans receive the assistance they need.
Fly748.com Head of Scheduled Services George Oduor added that businesses have a role to play in creating positive social impact and supporting vulnerable members of society.
Run 4 Seniors is organised by Mama Ibado Charity, a non-profit organisation that currently supports about 1,000 elderly beneficiaries through feeding, healthcare and welfare programmes in Isiolo and Kakamega counties.
