The 7th edition of the Joshua Cheptegei Kids Christmas Run was officially launched today, Friday, November 29, 2024 at the Joshua Cheptegei Development Foundation office in Kapchorwa.
Themed “Running for talent identification, education, and Cultural Art integrated with creating awareness and solutions around Gender- based violence, this year’s edition will take place on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at Kapchorwa Boma Grounds.
According to Abraham Kiplimo, CEO at JOCDEF, the 7th edition is unique as it goes beyond talent identification to offer opportunities for young people in education support, culture and create awareness and solutions to ending GBV. He said they incorporated the 5km walk against GBV due to the raising cases of the vice against both women and men.
Joshua Cheptegei Kiprui, 4×World and 2xOlympic champion who is also the President of Joshua Cheptegei Development Foundation highlighted the importance of education as the key to unlocking the potential of young people which according to him is most productive with talent.
“education alone is not enough. We must also provide opportunities for our children to develop their talents and pursue their passions” he said.
He added that “GBV is a stain in our society, and it is a reminder that we still have much work to do to protect the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly women and girls”. He said the corporate 5km walk race will bring together cultural, clan and religious leaders, school going children, and other stalkholders to showcase the importance of community engagement in addressing GBV.
Anthony Kuka Cherotich (chairman Board of Directors, JOCDEF) hinted on various societal issues that need urgent attention including the gender pay gap and discrimination. He further expressed excitement about the upcoming event on its effort to eliminate primitive cultures and promote social progress. He also appreciated the major sponsor of the event, Total Energies for their continuous support.
On behalf of security, Mrs. Deborah Mugerwa Mwesigwa expressed support for Cheptegei’s endeavors and dreams. She requested government to consider granting Kapchorwa a sports city status in appreciation of the numerous contributions of the athletes.
As the host, Kapchorwa Municipality mayor Andrew Timothy Mungusho pledged support for the Christmas run and appreciated the foundation’s efforts to community transformation and also Cheptegei for participating in the development of the municipality by lobbying through sports. Registration will commence on Monday, December 1, 2024 at JOCDEF for all categories (2km, 3km, 5km and 5km walk race).
