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Over a thousand participants graced the 10th edition of the Kids of Africa Run, held on Sunday, September 8, at Kids Pioneer School in Entebbe.
This year’s edition saw I&M Bank Uganda get on board as one of the major sponsors.
The event saw runners compete in different categories, including 5km, 10km, 21km races, as well as a 21km bicycle race.
This year’s run aimed to raise awareness and promote the use of reusable sanitary pads to keep girls in school. The proceeds 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.
People from all walks of life came together, creating a strong sense of community as families, individuals, and corporate teams united for a cause bigger than just the race.
“Today, we had a really good turnout, and we are humbled. 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 tackling a barrier that prevents girls from staying in school and reaching their full potential. Our aim is to create lasting change and ensure that every girl has the opportunity to succeed,” said Esbern Budolfsen, the Deputy National Director, Kids of Africa.
I&M Bank, who sponsored the 2022 edition of the run, expressed their delight about the success of this year’s run, highlighting the consequence it will have on the girl child.
“I&M Bank is proud to once again support the Kids of Africa Run. We are especially proud to champion such a crucial cause—improving access to reusable sanitary pads, to keep girls in school. Our partnership with this run aligns with our commitment to supporting community-driven initiatives that make a positive impact. On this one, we are excited about the impact it will have on the girl child,” said Racheal Kulanyi, the Communications and Outreach Officer at I&M Bank.
Kulanyi emphasized that I&M Bank seeks partnerships that make a meaningful difference in the communities they serve. By working with organizations like Kids of Africa, the bank is reaching out to communities and uplifting and empowering girls, families, and schools.
Back on the track, the main event saw Kevin Cheptoek from Kapchorwa win the men’s 21km race, with a time of 1:07:11.4. Felix Ayiko finished second with a time of 1:11:41.8. The third spot went to Fisher Eric Emcee, who finished in 1:44:20.4.
In the women’s 21km category, Ella was first with a time of 1:07:18.3. Aisha Namale finished second in 1:23:02.6, while Evas Nansasiira came third with a time of 1:59:58.0.
Daniel Comboni won the men’s 10km race, while Sylvia Chelangat won the women’s event. The men’s 5km was won by Jaffer Fadhil while the women’s event was won by Shida Leni.
The day’s activities were capped with a music performance by Azawi, who got the crowd dancing and singing to wind down the fatigue from the run.