More than 1,000 runners laced up their shoes for the Run for Seniors charity race, a vibrant event organized by Mama Ibado Charity (MIC) to raise funds for elderly citizens in Isiolo and Kakamega Counties.
The race, which offered 5km, 10km, and 15km distances to cater to all fitness levels, aimed to support monthly food baskets and essential healthcare services for over 1,000 seniors, restoring dignity and care to Kenya’s elderly population.
The event, flagged off by Mama Ibado Charity Director, Justice Mohammed Ibrahim, drew a diverse crowd united by a shared commitment to championing the welfare of seniors. Speaking at the event, Justice Ibrahim emphasized the importance of valuing elders in society.
“At Mama Ibado Charity, we believe that ageing should come with comfort, not neglect, with community, not loneliness, and with dignity, not dependency,” he said.
“We’re not just running today; we’re raising awareness and resources for our seniors who have walked life’s marathon long before us.”
Injecting humor into the occasion, Justice Ibrahim quipped, “Whoever decided this was a fun run clearly didn’t check with my knees! But here I am, dressed in running shoes and optimism, ready to prove that even judges can break a sweat for a good cause.”
He added with a chuckle, “If you see me walking around the 5km mark, don’t judge me—I’m a senior judge, just pacing myself with dignity.”
MIC President, Mr. Ahmed Jibril, praised the overwhelming participation from runners, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters.
“Your presence here today is a powerful gesture of solidarity and empathy,” Jibril said.
“You are not just running; you are carrying forward Mama Ibado’s legacy with every stride.”
The event was a resounding success, raising Ksh. 11 million in cash and in-kind contributions, according to Mr. Moses Mwangi, Managing Director of 748 Air Services.
“We are very grateful for this inaugural event. We exceeded expectations,” Mwangi said.
He highlighted the race’s role in elevating awareness for senior citizens, a demographic he noted has often been overlooked.
“We cannot ignore our seniors. We have to walk with them, ensuring they live with dignity by providing basics like food, healthcare, and accommodation.”
Hass Petroleum Chairman, Abdinasir Ali Hassan, reaffirmed the company’s long-term partnership with Mama Ibado Charity, which has facilitated the enrollment of many elderly beneficiaries into the Social Health Insurance Fund.
This initiative ensures seniors access critical medical services at no cost. “This is not just access to healthcare—it’s access to peace of mind,” Hassan said.
“This kind of life-changing impact rooted in community is exactly what corporate responsibility should look like.”
The Run for Seniors charity race not only raised significant funds but also sent a powerful message about the importance of caring for Kenya’s elderly, inspiring hope and solidarity for a more inclusive future.
