The fourth edition of the Mwea-Makima (MWEMA) half marathon was held on Saturday at the Mwea Game Reserve in Makima Ward, Embu County. The event brought together hundreds of athletes from various parts of the country, featuring 21-kilometre, 10-kilometre, and 5-kilometre races. This annual event serves as a fundraising initiative to support students from needy families to continue their education at secondary and tertiary levels.
In the men's 21-kilometre race, 26-year-old Nicholas Tanui emerged victorious, clocking 1.05.14. This was his first major victory in national competitions. Tanui trains in Kapsabet and described the course as tough due to the harsh weather conditions in the arid area. He was closely followed by James Kariuki of Embu, who finished second in 1.05.17, while Manela Michael emerged third in 1.05.26.
In the women's 21-kilometre race, Eunice Muchiri, the June 2026 Jakarta International Marathon bronze medallist, emerged victorious with a time of 1.15.48. The 34-year-old athlete, who trains in Nyahururu, faulted the organizers for starting the race late, citing the scorching sun as a factor that affected the athletes' performance. Lydia Simiyu finished second in 1.16.20, while Jedida Wanjiku settled for third in 1.16.51.
The 10-kilometre races also saw impressive performances, with Justus Muasia emerging first in the men's category, followed by Harrison Wanjiru and Alfred Kimani. In the women's 10-kilometre race, Tecla Chepkorir took the top spot, followed by Evelyn Mumbua and Judith Chepchirchir. The event was well-organized, with Makima MCA Philip Nzangi, also the race organizer, expressing satisfaction with the outcome.
According to Nzangi, the event has contributed significantly to a decline in school dropouts in the area, as funds raised through the race are used to pay school fees for students from needy families. Embu Athletics Kenya (AK) Chairperson Stephen Njeru noted that the race has played a crucial role in nurturing local athletic talent, providing athletes with opportunities to compete at national and international levels.
Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, the chief guest, called for a review of the organization's structure to give the race a stronger national outlook and attract more athletes from across the country. He suggested that with proper organization and investment, the race can be used to market the Mwea game reserve as a tourist destination, highlighting its diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
The Mwea Game Reserve, where the event was held, is home to a wide range of wild animals and bird species. The reserve offers a unique opportunity for athletes and tourists alike to experience Kenya's natural beauty. With the success of this year's event, organizers are already looking forward to the next edition, which promises to be even bigger and better.
Key points
- The MWEMA half marathon serves as a fundraising initiative to support students from needy families.
- Eunice Muchiri emerged victorious in the women's 21-kilometre race with a time of 1.15.48.
- The event has contributed to a decline in school dropouts in the area, with funds raised used to pay school fees for students from needy families.
