Stakeholders laud Chemususu Dam Half Marathon ahead of 10th edition

Speaking during the official media launch, Elijah Mwangi, the Principal Secretary for the State Department of Sports, praised the organizing committee for its commitment to talent development and community engagement.

“You have gone your way and managed to get sponsors on board. Through this initiative, we can reach out to sportsmen and women who may not have other avenues to showcase their talent,” said Mwangi.
“Events like this ensure that no talented athlete’s potential goes unnoticed.”

The PS highlighted that the marathon not only promotes sports but also nurtures grassroots talent in areas that lack exposure to significant events such as the Nairobi or Eldoret marathons.

He affirmed the government's support for ensuring that such local competitions continue to thrive.

Race Director and former Olympic gold medalist Mathew Birir echoed the PS’s sentiments but appealed to the Ministry to fast-track anti-doping test results through the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya, particularly for local athletes participating in similar local events.

“Most of our athletes lack the financial muscle to wait for months for their results,” said Birir. “If the testing process could take just a month, it would greatly help our runners who train and compete under tough conditions.”

Birir also invited participants to experience the beauty and hospitality of Chemususu, describing it as both a sporting and tourism destination.

On his part, Eldama Ravine MP Musa Sirma, the race patron, commended the marathon’s organizers for turning the event into a beacon of hope for youth and a driver of economic growth.

“Athletics brings foreign exchange and creates opportunities for young Kenyans. This marathon is not just about running—it’s about empowerment and unity,” Sirma said.

The 21km race will award the top 10 finishers, with the overall winner taking home KSh 300,000 from a KSh 1.57 million prize pool.

Beyond competition, the Chemususu Dam Marathon focuses on environmental conservation, community development, and talent growth, making it one of Kenya’s most transformative grassroots sporting initiatives.