Kisumu County has announced plans to run a conservation road race and family fun run dubbed ‘Kisumu My Pride City Run’ on September 24 as a way to promote the city’s sports, culture, and tourism sectors.
The event will feature during this year’s Kisumu Tourism Week celebrated alongside the United Nations World Tourism Day 2023 commemorated on September 27.
In her remarks during a press briefing, the CECM in charge of Tourism Farida Salim said that the Directorate of Tourism has partnered with Kenya Wildlife Service, Athletics Kenya Nyanza North, and Tourism Fund, to promote a sustainable tourism sector in the region.
Salim projected that over 5,000 participants are expected to attend the fete thus making it the largest environmental conservation event in the lake region.
“This will not just be about the race, it is a celebration of community and healthy living, connecting with fellow participants, making new friends, and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere that Kisumu County has to offer,” stated the CECM.
Activities lined up for the day include a road race for adults and kids fun run, a tri-cycling competition for people with disabilities, a nature festival at the Kisumu Impala sanctuary and an awards gala.
“These events are a great way to engage with local people, especially the fun run which is really accessible to everyone, including children and adults looking forward to running together as families or those new to running sports,” Salim explained.
Speaking at the same event, Athletics Kenya Nyanza North Secretary, Thomas Ongwacho urged the locals to massively register for the event that seeks to identify and nurture young athletes.
Ongwacho noted that participants will compete in three main races; a 5-km fun run, a 10-km race for both locals and elite athletes, and a 21-km half marathon competition. The winners in each category will receive cash rewards during an award gala.
“This activity is open for everybody whether young or old. As we launch the registration exercise, I urge us to enroll in masses to have a chance to take part in this historic event,” Ongwacho appealed.
The registration fee to participate in any of the activities is charged uniformly at Sh2100 for both adults and children.
The annual World Tourism Day celebration seeks to foster awareness among the international community on the importance of tourism on its social, cultural, political, and economic value.
This year’s celebration will be themed, ‘Tourism and Green Investment – Investing in People, Planet and Prosperity’.
By Robert Ojwang’
