Running for Education: Uzalendo Half Marathon 2026 Launched
The Eldama Ravine Education Foundation (EREF) in partnership with Uzalendo School and Athletics Kenya Baringo, has officially launched the 2026 Uzalendo Half Marathon. The sporting event is aimed at raising funds to support the education of bright but financially disadvantaged students while promoting patriotism, talent development and community participation.
Held under the theme "Running for Patriotism, Education & Kenya's Future," the marathon seeks to establish a nationally recognised platform that combines sport with social impact by investing in education and empowering future generations of Kenyan leaders.
Speaking during the launch, ICT and Digital Economy PS John Tanui noted the importance of the marathon to the future leaders of tomorrow. “Education is truly the key to success and this marathon seeks to enable more students to achieve their fullest potential through knowledge. Since its establishment in 2016, Uzalendo School has educated more than 1,000 students with 397 learners benefiting from full scholarships supported through the Eldama Ravine Education Foundation at a cumulative investment of over KSh54 million. The school has consistently produced graduates who have gone on to become industry leaders and positively serving communities across the country.”
Winners of the marathon will receive over one and a half million Kenya shillings in total across various categories. The proceeds from the marathon will support three key areas. Eighty per cent of the funds raised will be invested in the Uzalendo Endowment Fund to guarantee sustainable scholarship financing, fifteen per cent will support priority infrastructure development at Uzalendo School, while five per cent will finance community social responsibility initiatives within Eldama Ravine and Mogotio sub-counties.
Speaking at the launch, Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, Arts and Heritage Hon. Hanna Wendot Cheptumo requested Kenyans to support the initiative, observing that investing in education is one of the most enduring acts of patriotism. "The Uzalendo Half Marathon demonstrates how sport can unite our nation behind a noble cause. Every child deserves the opportunity to realise their full potential regardless of their socio-economic background. I call upon the private sector, development partners and all Kenyans to join us in making this marathon a lasting national movement that transforms lives through education."
The event will feature multiple race categories designed to encourage participation by all age groups and sectors of society, including:
21 Kilometre Uzalendo Half Marathon (Men & Women)
10 Kilometre Race (Men & Women)
5 Kilometre Youth Run for Secondary School and College Students
5 Kilometre Corporate Fun Run
2 Kilometre Children's Dash for Primary and Junior School Pupils
Beyond fundraising, the Uzalendo Half Marathon seeks to nurture sporting talent, strengthen community cohesion, celebrate national values and encourage collective responsibility towards expanding educational opportunities for vulnerable learners. The inaugural edition of the revived marathon will be held on Saturday, 18 July 2026 at Emining Junction in Mogotio Sub-County and concluding at the Koibatek Agricultural Training Centre (ATC) Grounds in Eldama Ravine, Baringo County. The event will bring together elite athletes, amateur runners, corporates, schools, institutions and members of the public from across Kenya and the East African region.