BY AGNES MAKHANDIA
Kenya’s First Lady, Margaret Kenyatta yesterday launched the official registration for the second First Lady half marathon race at Karura Forest set for March 8, 2015.
The registration fee is Sh1,500.
The theme of the race is “Beyond Zero” campaign that seeks to raise funds to increase access to better healthcare through the provision of mobile clinics to less fortunate Kenyans.
After taking part in a 3km fun race, at the same venue, yesterday, Mrs Kenyatta lauded sponsors, development partners and well wishers who contributed to the success of the first edition staged on March 9 that attracted over 30,000 runners both young and old.
“Early this year, we began a journey of hope. A journey that would ensure the lives of our mothers and children are saved. That journey was not easy. It demanded our effort, discipline and will. And thanks to your support, we made it,”
She added, “ I would like to whole-heartedly thank all of you who supported us at the inaugural edition of the First Lady’s Half Marathon. You all contributed immensely, in cash and in kind, and your support pushed us all the way to the finish line of our most memorable charity race at the London Marathon on April 13,” observed Mrs. Kenyatta.
Mrs Kenyatta noted that with the contribution, the initiative has been able to purchase 20 mobile clinics. But was quick to note that they still have plans to buy 27 more clinics for other counties.
“Seven of these clinics have already been handed over to the county governments of Taita Taveta, Narok, Samburu, Homa Bay, Baringo, Isiolo and Wajir. These are some of the counties with the highest maternal and child mortality rates,”
“We still need your good support to purchase 27 more clinics so that our dream of providing one mobile clinic to each of our beautiful country’s 47 counties becomes a reality.”
Mrs Kenyatta however challenged County governments to supplement what the campaign has achieved so far.
“I take this opportunity to call on county governments to supplement what has been achieved.”
Courtesy of the-star.co.ke