By Geoffrey Gikungu, Hope Mantema Mmari, and Frank Ojwang

As we anticipate the impact that the just-concluded inaugural half-marathon will bring, we can’t help but look back with pride as we assess the efforts that went into achieving a successful event. The function drew praise from participants, volunteers, and athletics officials alike for its seamless organization, strong turnout, and powerful mission.

Ed Killermeter, a participant sharing his experience on Strava, gave the race a “double thumbs up” for its execution. He particularly appreciated the t-shirts, the presence of ORS at water points, and the security team’s efforts to manage traffic. Looking ahead, he hoped future editions would be “bigger and better,” suggesting collaborations with more running clubs to boost participation.

Another participant, Thomas Musisi, described the event as “very engaging,” praising the race route and saying he enjoyed the whole event up to the last minute. He highlighted the Red Bull provided during the run and the post-race stretches by Southern Fitness as standout touches that enhanced the overall experience.

Behind the scenes, the event came together through the combined efforts of various individuals and groups. It featured social media campaigns, newspaper adverts, billboard advertisements, letters to institutions, call centers, activation centers at different events in Nairobi, and so much more. Various divisions and departments, students, internal and external stakeholders supported this initiative in a variety of unique ways. One such effort was by Hope Mantema Mmari, a freshman pursuing International Relations. She used the donation form designed by the Fundraising Office to reach out to neighbors and friends in person and through her WhatsApp status to raise awareness about the initiative and provide guidance on how others can be part of it. Through her effort, Hope raised KES 10,000.

Furthermore, Frank Ojwang, Chief Manager, Development Department, used his holiday activities to create awareness and raise funds. Through the engagement dubbed Miles for Education, he raised KES 30,800 by reaching out to friends via Facebook and WhatsApp. To appeal for support, he sought sponsorship for each mile he covered through running, walking, riding electric scooters, using electric trains and trams, and traversing a few countries in Europe. With sponsorship of each mile set at KSH 150/ USD 1/ EUR 1, Frank received sponsorship for 205 miles out of his targeted 1,695 (12%), with more than 20 participants registering for the marathon.

Volunteers also played an indispensable role in the race’s success, serving as the warm human connection for participants. They ushered guests from the school gate to the venue, directed runners along the route, serviced water points, and guided visitors to key amenities. They also handled kit distribution with grace, resolving challenges on the spot and ensuring a smooth process. Their smiles, encouragement, and professionalism made every participant feel valued.

Ashley Isanda, one of the event volunteers, expressed deep gratitude for being part of the planning process. She commended Geoffrey Gikungu, chair of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), as “a force to reckon with” for his calm and steady leadership. She also praised the entire team for executing the institution’s first marathon with excellence, noting it was a remarkable achievement for such a large-scale debut.

Equally impactful were the cheerleaders at the finish line. Their chants, applause, and high-energy celebrations made runners feel truly recognized, transforming the final moments of the race into a joyful shared experience.

No effort was too small, and every contribution led to a successful event. Geoffrey Gikungu shared that the half-marathon attracted an impressive 1,718 athletes, an exceptional turnout for a first-time event. He also reported that the race raised KES 2.3 million in support of its cause, championed under the theme Miles for Education, reflecting the generosity of the community and the power of its mission.

Athletics Kenya’s Nairobi Secretary General, George Kariuki, praised the launch as “an amazing start,” commending the standard of organization, regulation, and planning as national-level quality. He noted that with refinement over the next three years, the event could enter Athletics Kenya’s official calendar and eventually, with further growth, achieve international accreditation.

Vice Chancellor Professor Mwenda Ntarangwi shared the vision behind the event: “The desire to bring the entire community into something meaningful that everyone could participate in, regardless of age or background.” With Miles for Education, every step taken is a step toward changing a life, he stated.” Professor Ntarangwi affirmed that the Half-Marathon would now be a fixture in the university calendar, with a commitment to channel resources effectively to support students in need.

On behalf of the LOC, Mr. Gikungu expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants, sponsors, partners, and volunteers: “This event was built on community spirit, and we are deeply thankful to everyone who made it possible, he concluded.”

The inaugural half-marathon presented numerous lessons, and there is a need to take stock of them, apply lessons, and ensure that no USIU-Africa student ever drops out of school due to school fees.