Athletics Kenya is set to celebrate Mazingira Day in style by hosting the first-ever Nairobi open cross-country race at Kasarani Stadium. The event blends environmental sustainability, community development, and athletics, creating a unique model for grassroots impact.
The initiative will feature a mass participation cross-country run, tree planting, and an education drive aimed at supporting needy pupils from the Roysambu area and beyond. Organisers have set a target of planting 5,000 seedlings during the event, adding to the momentum of the Miti Millioni campaign, which has already put more than one million trees in the ground since 2016.
At the heart of the campaign is the integration of athletics into environmental conservation and community health. The race is open to elite runners, recreational athletes, and residents from Roysambu, Githurai, and Kasarani. With 5,000 participants expected, the event will showcase athletics not only as a competitive sport but also as a vehicle for promoting sustainability and healthier lifestyles.
Cross-country was chosen for its accessibility and inclusivity. Organisers believe it is a low-risk competition suitable for all age groups, unlike road running, which often requires extensive permits and resources. The Nairobi meet is the first of its kind outside Athletics Kenya’s official competition calendar in decades, symbolising a new direction for the sport at community level.
In addition to fostering athletic participation, the project carries a strong social mission. Funds raised from the race will go towards paying school fees for children in vulnerable households. Roysambu has been identified as a region with high school dropout rates due to poverty, and organisers are determined to use sport as a platform to address this challenge.
The initiative also reflects Athletics Kenya’s broader environmental leadership. The federation has earned international recognition for being the first African body to join the UN Climate Change Sports for Climate Action Framework and for receiving the prestigious World Athletics Green Award. Its partnerships with global organisations such as UNEP and SEI have introduced air quality monitoring in stadiums and schools, further cementing its pioneering role in linking athletics with climate action.
By combining running, conservation, and education, the Mazingira Day cross country sets a new benchmark for community-driven sport. It is not just a race, but a movement to empower, educate, and preserve the environment for future generations.
