400 athletes to support legal aid in 60km race

DAR ES SALAAM: ABOUT 400 runners and cyclists will participate in the Utu Kwanza Marathon, a humanitarian ultra-marathon covering over 60 km from Dar es Salaam to Bagamoyo.

The marathon aims to provide legal support for individuals, who cannot afford a legal representative in court in cases of civil or criminal offences.

This year, the Utu Kwanza Marathon is focused on raising awareness and funds for their Legal Aid Desk Project, which assists individuals in custody or prison.

Chairperson Shehzada Walli unveiled ambitious plans for the upcoming event, aiming to expand their assistance to more people facing legal challenges while in custody or prison.

“Building on last year’s success where we assisted over 100 individuals through the Kisutu Law Desk, our goal for this year is to broaden our impact and provide support to even more people facing legal challenges while in custody or prison,” Walli said.

The marathon will feature various events, including a 21 km half marathon, a 10 km walk/run and a 5 km walk/run, all designed to support the Legal Aid Desk Project.

Former Olympian Samweli Mwera, who also serves as the Secretary of Athletics for Dar es Salaam, emphasised the importance of community sports events in fostering social cohesion and supporting charitable causes.

“While athletics is essential for improving physical health, it also plays a key role in fostering community connections and shared joy,” Mwera said.

“I urge everyone to engage in these social sports events not only to boost their own fitness but also to contribute to development initiatives and support those in need.”

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This year, the marathon will offer enticing prizes for the top three finishers in each category, as well as special awards for the oldest and youngest participants, with every runner receiving a commemorative medal.