The inaugural Kitui Green Run Half-Marathon themed “Run for Rain” has received a major boost as organizers officially unveiled the highly anticipated event aimed at promoting environmental conservation and improving water accessibility across Kitui County and beyond.

The two-day event, scheduled for Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st May 2026 at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui town, is being organized by the Green Africa Group in partnership with Athletics Kenya and the County Government of Kitui.

According to the organizers, the marathon seeks to champion sustainable environmental conservation initiatives while helping communities access clean and reliable water through water harvesting systems.

The marathon will feature a 21-kilometre elite race, a 10-kilometre category for businesses and organizations, a 5-kilometre schools and youth green mile as well as a 2-kilometre children’s race. Winners are expected to walk away with part of the over Ksh. 2.5 million cash prizes set aside for the competition, making it one of the biggest community-centered sporting events in the county.

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Speaking during the official launch of the Run for Rain initiative held at a hotel in Kitui town, Kitui County CECM for Culture, Sports, Youth Affairs, ICT and Social Services Phoebe Mutemi said the initiative goes beyond sports and seeks to transform lives through water accessibility projects. “This is not just a marathon for professional athletes but a movement aimed at making water accessible to our people.” said Mutemi.

She noted that the County Government under Governor Dr. Julius Malombe has continued to invest heavily in construction of sand dams and other water projects, adding that the marathon will complement ongoing efforts to address water scarcity in the county.

Waziri Mutemi further hailed the collaboration between the County Government, Athletics Kenya and Green Africa Group, saying the partnership will help nurture local talent while advancing environmental conservation programs.

In her address, Run chair Julia Kalkwe from Green Africa Group encouraged residents, schools, corporates and institutions to register in large numbers and participate in the marathon in support of the cause. “This marathon is not only about competition and winning but also about supporting an initiative that seeks to transform lives through improved access to water,” she said.

Julia revealed that several learning institutions including St. Stephen Kaveta Secondary School, Eng. Ngilu School among others are expected to benefit from the proceeds and water projects initiated through this initiative.

The organizers expressed optimism that the event will attract hundreds of athletes, environmental enthusiasts and residents from across the country, positioning Kitui as a growing hub for sports tourism and environmental advocacy.

Registration for the marathon is currently ongoing ahead of the May 26, 2026 deadline. You can register through: https://kituigreenrun.com/

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