Fitness coach William Mtana runs 150km to fund prosthetics for disabilities

Fitness instructor and health coach William Mtana from Kwale County has made history by completing a 150km run from Diani Beach to Watamu in Kilifi County.

The Herculean challenge dubbed the ‘Leg It For A Cause’ ultramarathon, was organized to raise funds for purchasing prosthetic devices for individuals with physical disabilities.

This was Mtana's second such challenge in two years. Over three days, he traversed the coastal counties of Kwale, Mombasa, and Kilifi, with stopovers in Nyali and Kilifi town.

In 2023, he took on a 24-hour nonstop workout challenge to raise funds for Tabasamu_vzw, a nonprofit organization based in Kinondo, Kwale County.

Mtana’s latest ultramarathon showcased his unwavering commitment to leveraging his passion for fitness to create positive change in his community. His efforts highlighted the potential of sports as a powerful tool for advancing social causes.

In recent years, endurance sports have gained popularity as a platform to merge fitness pursuits with fundraising for humanitarian initiatives.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, Mtana expressed his pride in the success of the event.

“I am dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with physical disabilities by acquiring life-changing prosthetic devices for those in need. Additionally, I hope to educate communities on dealing with amputation challenges and eradicating the stigma associated with it,” he said.

The ultramarathon also served to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed annually on December 3.

Running an ultramarathon of this magnitude requires intense preparation. Mtana credited his achievement to a dedicated team of sponsors and support crew.

James Freeman Ng’ang’a, who ran alongside Mtana for the entire three days, emphasized the meticulous planning that went into the event.

“We have been preparing for months, and I’m glad we achieved most of our goals. This would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our sponsors and friends who encouraged us throughout. Dedication, discipline, and a proper diet were key to our success,” Ng’ang’a said.

Mtana echoed these sentiments, expressing his heartfelt gratitude. “I would like to thank all our sponsors, family, and friends for turning what started as a dream into reality,” he said.

The ultramarathon inadvertently promoted the region’s scenic tourism landmarks.

Speaking at the official flag-off, Michael Mutua, Kwale County’s CECM for Tourism, Trade, and Enterprise, lauded the initiative for its dual impact.

“We are always open to collaborating with individuals like William, who are committed to helping the community. This initiative not only supports a noble cause but also highlights the Coastal region’s stunning tourist attractions to the world,” Mutua said.

Through his extraordinary efforts, Mtana has demonstrated how fitness and social impact can intersect to inspire change and promote inclusivity.