Top Kenyan athletes are set to rally behind education by participating in the sixth edition of the Strathmore Annual Run, scheduled for Saturday, September 5, 2026.
Two-time world marathon champion Abel Kirui is among the renowned athletes expected to take part in the event, which aims to raise funds for a scholarship fund supporting students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.
The number of participants is expected to reach approximately 3,200, double the 1,600 people who participated in last year’s race.
Speaking on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, during preparations for the event, Strathmore University Foundation Chief Executive Officer Christine Ochieng’ said the involvement of elite athletes would help inspire more people to support students in need.
“They bring an added level of excellence. They have done so much for our country. We too can do something for our country by bringing resources towards education,” said Ochieng’.
Other prominent athletes expected to participate include 1987 World Marathon Champion Douglas Wakiihuri, Paralympic athlete Henry Wanyoike, Tecla Loroupe, Lorna Kiplagat, and 100-metre sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala, through the Ferdinand Omanyala Sprint Club.
Ochieng’ said Wakiihuri has offered his expertise to help improve the organisation and professionalism of the race, while Wanyoike has been mobilising members of his community to register and participate in support of students who need scholarship opportunities.
Beyond athletics, the annual run is part of Strathmore University’s broader efforts to expand access to education for academically deserving students regardless of their financial circumstances.
Ochieng’ said the institution wants to promote an education system where students’ academic merit and potential, rather than their ability to pay school fees, determine their access to educational opportunities.
“Any student who deserves a place should have the opportunity to come to Strathmore and study through the scholarships we are able to secure,” she said.
The initiative has also expanded beyond Kenya through Strathmore University alumni living in different parts of the world, who have been organising similar runs to support the scholarship campaign.
Ochieng’ said the United States edition is expected to take place in New York in spring 2027, with the same objective of raising funds to support education.The event is expected to attract people of different ages and abilities, ranging from children and first-time runners to experienced long-distance athletes.
The race will feature four categories: 21km, 10km, 5km Fun Run and 2.5km, with the 2.5km category targeting children and beginner runners.
The Strathmore Annual Run will start at 12 noon on Saturday, September 5, 2026, with the starting and finishing points at the Strathmore University Sports Complex in Makadara.
