Over 1,000 Kenyans join charity run to support older persons welfare

The annual event, organised by Mama Ibado Charity, seeks to raise funds and awareness for programmes providing food, healthcare and social support to vulnerable elderly people, particularly in Isiolo and Kakamega counties.

Speaking during the event, Mama Ibado Charity President Ahmed Jibril said the increasing participation reflected a growing recognition that caring for older persons is a collective responsibility shared by individuals, businesses, government and development partners.

He said the event was helping to elevate conversations around the needs of Kenya's ageing population while mobilising resources to support senior citizens facing food insecurity, poor access to healthcare and social isolation.

Run 4 Seniors Chairman Moses Mwangi said the initiative had grown into one of the country's emerging charity sporting events, attributing its expansion to support from participants, corporate sponsors and development partners.

"Our seniors helped build the communities we live in today. It is our responsibility to ensure they live with dignity and receive the care they deserve," Mwangi said.

The event featured 5-kilometre, 10-kilometre and 15-kilometre race categories, attracting families, corporate teams, fitness enthusiasts and community groups.

Corporate sponsors said the initiative underscored the need for sustained investment in programmes supporting older persons.

Sidian Bank Chief Executive Officer John Okulo said support for the event extended beyond fundraising to advocating for improved access to healthcare, nutrition and psychosocial support for senior citizens.

KCB Foundation Director Mendi Njonjo reaffirmed the foundation's commitment to supporting programmes that improve the quality of life for older Kenyans, while Fly748.com Head of Scheduled Services George Oduor said businesses had a responsibility to contribute to social causes beyond their commercial operations.

According to the organisers, Mama Ibado Charity currently supports about 1,000 vulnerable older persons through feeding, healthcare and social welfare programmes in Isiolo and Kakamega counties.