Joshua Chepetegei, the World and Olympic champion, has emphasized that the Elgon Half Marathon is a call to action to promote conservation, fight climate change, and end Gender Based Violence (GBV).
Cheptegei made these remarks on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, during the official launch of the Elgon Half Marathon with Joshua Cheptegei scheduled for November 2, 2024, in Mbale City.
According to Cheptegei, the marathon is more than a feat of endurance; it is a call to action.
“I want to emphasize that this marathon is more than just a feat of endurance; it is a call to action that we must conserve and protect our environment, preserve our natural heritage, and promote sustainable livelihoods,” Cheptegei stated.
Additionally, he also stated that GBV undermines the progress that people strive for, and through the marathon, they can make a difference.
“Gender-Based Violence undermines the progress that we strive for. Through this marathon, we are promoting inclusivity, empowering women and girls, and fostering a culture of respect. Together we can make a difference,” Cheptegei noted.
Nwanne Vwede Obahor, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Uganda Resident Representative, recognized Cheptegei’s effort to use his talent to help his community.
“It is important to appreciate that as he runs, he runs with so many people. I am so happy that we can accompany him as he carries his community with him.” Obahor stated.
Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, the Youth Affairs Minister, revealed that he has asked the IGP to promote Cheptegei to SP because he has won the most important Olympic medal.
The Joshua Cheptegei Development Foundation was established to transform communities into strong, united, and influential partners in development. Its main agenda is to use sports for community transformation, taking note that Sebei Sub-region in Uganda is one of the communities that still grapples with challenges of GBV, early marriages, teenage pregnancies, poverty, high levels of school dropouts, Female Genital Mutilation, and HIV/AIDS.
