Mombasa Satellite Marathon takes eco-friendly strides to a new level
By Lucky Oluoch, July 24, 2023In a groundbreaking collaboration, Standard Chartered, together with the Mombasa Walk Movement (MWM), a renowned community-based organization promoting healthy living and environmental sustainability, has set the stage for an inspiring and momentous 20th Edition of the Standard Chartered Marathon.
Dubbed “Twende StanChart Marathon 2023,” this edition is poised to be a celebration of fitness, stewardship, and community engagement.
The launch event kicked off, at the weekend, with a 14km Pre-Launch Walk, symbolizing the shared values of fitness and a commitment to a greener future.
Starting at the crack of dawn from the Standard Chartered, Treasury Square Branch, participants weaved their way through the vibrant city of Mombasa, culminating at the rejuvenated Miracle Park, formerly known as Kibarani Dumpsite.
However, this year, the collaboration goes beyond mere footfalls as Standard Chartered and Mombasa Walk Movement are spearheading a “plant and grow” approach to sustainability.
To commemorate this momentous occasion, a thousand indigenous tree seedlings were planted at Kibarani Recreation Park, with Mombasa Cement stepping up to care for the trees post-planting.
Additionally, the marathon aims to plant over 25,000 tree seedlings during the main event, as well as the satellite runs in Kisumu and Eldoret, in tandem with the flagship Nairobi Marathon.
Beyond the pursuit of fitness and environmental stewardship, the event also embraced community well-being through a medical camp.
200 participants and members of the local community received valuable healthcare services, courtesy of Aga Khan Hospital, Procare Medical Centre, and Mikindani Medical Hospital. Services offered included Body Mass Index checks, Blood Pressure monitoring, Blood Sugar Tests, and Cancer Screenings, promoting holistic wellness among the participants.
Kellen Kariuki (pictured), the Board Chairperson of Standard Chartered Kenya, expressed her excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing the enduring commitment to sustainability.
She called upon Mombasa County and the entire community to embrace the Nairobi Marathon, and collectively contribute to building a healthier and greener future.
In the spirit of unity and community engagement, Mohamed Faki, the Senator of Mombasa County, expressed his gratitude and pride in hosting the “Twende Stanchart Marathon.”
He urged everyone to participate wholeheartedly, emphasizing that the marathon embodies the resilience of the people, promotes sports, and uplifts the economy. He called upon all to run hand in hand, for the love of the nation, for the love of sports, and for the love of a better tomorrow.