The annual National Dyslexia awareness run was held in Arusha, Tanzania, with over 700 athletes participating in the event. The run, now in its third instalment, aims to raise awareness about dyslexia and promote inclusivity for children and adults with the condition. Organizers from Dyslexia Tanzania plan to expand the event nationwide from 2027 onwards, increasing awareness and support for those affected by dyslexia.
According to Johns Habib Rashid, co-founder of Dyslexia Tanzania, there has been a significant increase in awareness about dyslexia, with people now understanding that it is not a handicap but rather a different way of learning. The organization is working to increase training and awareness-raising efforts to ensure that dyslexic children receive their rights in society, including specialized education and involvement in sports. Rashid emphasized the importance of early intervention among parents to support dyslexic children.
The Arusha City Sports Officer, Benson Maneno, expressed his support for the event, stating that the council will ensure all children in the urban area participate in the annual marathon and training sessions. Maneno noted that dyslexia affects not only children but also adults and renowned sports personalities, and that awareness efforts are targeting younger ages. He encouraged parents to participate in events like the marathon to learn how to handle and support dyslexic children.
Elizabeth Mwakajila Ayo, Director of Mrembo Safaris, participated in the marathon as a parent and emphasized that dyslexia is curable with proper awareness and nurturing. She encouraged parents to participate in events like the marathon to learn how to handle and support dyslexic children. Ayo pointed out that with the right support, dyslexic children can thrive and reach their full potential.
According to Dyslexia Tanzania, at least 10 million Tanzanians are dyslexic, with 20 percent of the population estimated to be affected. The organization is working to raise awareness about dyslexia and provide support for those affected. The annual marathon serves as a platform for engaging children and parents to support dyslexic children in Arusha and Tanzania as a whole.
Caudence Ayoti, founder of Dyslexia Tanzania, explained that dyslexic children are not slow learners but rather have special skills that may not be expressed through normal education environments. Ayoti pointed out that many notable figures, including Steve Jobs, were dyslexic and achieved great success. She emphasized that dyslexic children require special support and understanding to reach their full potential.
The organizers of the dyslexia awareness run plan to extend the event to other regions across Tanzania, starting with Dodoma in 2025. The event has grown in popularity, with over 600 participants in the first season in 2024, nearly 1000 runners in 2025, and over 700 athletes in the 2026 event. The run includes various distances, including 2.5 kilometers, 5 kilometers, and 10 kilometers, making it accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
Key points
- Dyslexia affects an estimated 10 million Tanzanians, with 20 percent of the population expected to be dyslexic.
- The annual dyslexia awareness run in Arusha has grown in popularity, with over 700 athletes participating in the 2026 event.
- Organizers plan to expand the event nationwide from 2027 onwards, increasing awareness and support for those affected by dyslexia.
