Over 1,000 Kenyans laced up their running shoes and took to the streets for the inaugural ‘Run for Seniors’ charity race, a powerful show of unity aimed at restoring dignity and care for elderly citizens in Isiolo and Kakamega Counties.
Organized by Mama Ibado Charity (MIC), the event raised funds to support monthly food baskets and healthcare services for over 1,000 vulnerable elders. Runners participated in 5km, 10km, and 15km races — a format designed to be inclusive for all fitness levels.
Flagging off the event, MIC Director and Supreme Court Judge Hon. Justice Mohammed Ibrahim stressed the importance of caring for older Kenyans who, he said, had already “walked life’s marathon.”
“Ageing should come with comfort, not neglect; with community, not loneliness; and with dignity, not dependency,” said Justice Ibrahim.
Lightening the atmosphere, he joked, “Whoever called this a fun run clearly didn’t check with my knees. But here I am, dressed in running shoes and optimism.”
“If you see me walking around the 5km mark, don’t judge me — I’m a senior judge, just pacing myself with dignity.”
MIC President Ahmed Jibril hailed the turnout and support as a heartwarming sign that Kenyans are beginning to rally around senior citizens, a group often forgotten in public discourse.
“You are not just running. You are carrying forward Mama Ibado’s legacy with every stride,” he told participants, thanking runners, sponsors, and volunteers.
The event raised Ksh 11 million in cash and kind, according to 748 Air Services Managing Director Moses Mwangi, who praised the public for exceeding expectations.
“We cannot ignore our seniors. They deserve the basics — food, healthcare, and shelter,” Mwangi emphasized.
Hass Petroleum Chairman Abdinasir Ali Hassan also underscored his company’s continued commitment to elderly welfare through Mama Ibado Charity. Their support has enabled the registration of dozens of elders into the Social Health Insurance Fund, providing access to essential healthcare services.
“This isn’t just access to treatment — it’s access to peace of mind,” said Hassan. “This is what corporate responsibility should look like.”
The ‘Run for Seniors’ has emerged as more than a fundraiser. It is now a national wake-up call to remember the silent generation that built the nation — and to ensure they are not left behind.
