The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) together with Joshua Cheptegei Development foundation (JOCDEF), on Wednesday launched the 2nd edition of Elgon Half Marathon which is scheduled to take place on 2nd November 2024 in Mbale City in the Eastern part of the country.
The reigning world record holder, in 5km and 10km, Olympics champions Joshua Cheptegei continues to partner with UNDP to champion sustainable development within the Elgon Region.
The event is designed to boost the need for climate action and conservation in the biodiverse Elgon region, broaden inclusive and meaningful community participation within the tourism value chain, and advocate for the elimination of gender-based violence (GBV).
The marathon will incorporate 21km (half marathon), 10km and 5km running events traversing the high altitudes of Mount Elgon National Park.
Participants can register at bit.ly/elgonhalfmarathon for a fee of 30,000 UGX which includes participation in the run, official running kit (running vest, water bottle and kit bag), and the opportunity to win medals and prizes. Proceeds from the event will go directly to Joshua Cheptegei Development Foundation (JOCDEF) to support the foundation’s important work in community transformation.
Several Government entities and private sector companies have joined this cause including the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA), Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), National Forestry Authority (NFA), National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), Uganda Athletics Federation, United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC), Nation Media Group, Vision Group, NBS Sport, Amref Health Africa, Infinix, Stanbic Bank, Total Energies, Uganda Airlines, Hima Cement, Crown Beverages and Nile Breweries.
Speaking in the event, Kween District woman MP Hon Cherukut Emma Rose, noted that climate change is a reality which we can’t run away from noting that we must bring our efforts together in the fight for a better and more conducive environment.
“First, Climate change is a reality we can’t run away from and as leaders in our different capabilities. We must bring our efforts together in the fight for a better and more conducive environment,” she said.
She further noted that the Elgon half marathon is very important for the fight of Gender based violence.
“This Elgon Half Marathon is also very necessary for the fight against gender-based violence. We need to always remember Rebecca Cheptegei and work together to end violence against women and girls.”-Hon. Rose Emma Cherukut, Kween District MP during the launch of Elgon half marathon on Wednesday at UNDP offices Kampala.
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