World AIDS Day Half Marathon: Big Prizes, Bigger Mission

Athletics Kenya (AK) and the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) have teamed up to organize the first-ever World AIDS Day Half Marathon. This event will happen on Sunday, December 1, at Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi. The marathon combines the excitement of athletics with a mission to raise HIV/AIDS awareness.

The theme, "Race Against Time," focuses on encouraging men and boys to get tested early and start treatment quickly. Dr. Ruth Masha, CEO of NSDCC, highlighted that men are often late in seeking medical care, leading to complications. She urged men to take leadership roles in fighting HIV/AIDS and tackle related issues like drug abuse, TB, and teenage pregnancies.

Dr. Masha hopes Kenya’s love for athletics will help change attitudes and promote awareness. Athletics Kenya's Nairobi Region Chair, Barnaba Korir, praised the planning team and encouraged athletes to join in spreading awareness.

The marathon includes five categories:

• 21 km half marathon

• 10 km race

• 10 km wheelchair race

• 5 km fun run

• 2 km race for CEOs and children

All races will start at the Toyota Kenya roundabout on Uhuru Highway, and the 21 km race will pass through Westlands, CBD, and Upperhill before finishing at Nyayo Stadium.

Athletics Kenya’s Chief Administrative Officer, Susan Kamau, urged athletes to participate, saying AK is committed to fighting HIV/AIDS. She compared the effort to fighting doping and gender-based violence.

The event offers attractive cash prizes, with Ksh. 250,000 for the 21 km winners and rewards for other top finishers. The 10 km and wheelchair race categories also feature cash prizes. Registration costs Ksh. 1,500 for adults and Ksh. 1,000 for minors and can be done via the USSD code 82686# or the official website.