‎The Fourth Edition of the Mwea-Makima (MWEMA) half marathon was held Saturday at the Mwea Game Reserve in Makima Ward, Embu County, that brought together hundreds of athletes from various parts of the country.

‎The annual event that featured 21-kilometre, 10-kilometre and 5-kilometre races also serves as a fundraising initiative to support students from needy families to continue their education at the secondary and tertiary levels.

‎In the men’s 21-kilometre race, 26-year-old Nicholas Tanui, who trains in Kapsabet, emerged victorious after clocking 1.05.14. It was the first major victory in national competitions for the upcoming athlete.

‎Tanui described the course as tough, citing the harsh weather conditions that characterize the area classified as arid.

‎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, June 2026 Jakarta International Marathon bronze medallist Eunice Muchiri emerged victorious in a time of 1.15.48.

The 34-year-old athlete, who trains in Nyahururu, faulted the organizers for starting the race late, saying the scorching sun affected the athletes’ ability to register better times.

‎Lydia Simiyu finished second in 1.16.20, while Jedida Wanjiku settled for third in 1.16.51.

In the men’s 10-kilometre race, Justus Muasia emerged first, followed by Harrison Wanjiru and Alfred Kimani.

‎The women’s 10-kilometre race was won by Tecla Chepkorir, followed by Evelyn Mumbua and Judith Chepchirchir.

‎Makima MCA Philip Nzangi, who is also the race organizer, said the event has contributed to a decline in school dropouts in the area.

Nzangi said funds raised through the race are used to pay school fees for students from needy families, enabling them to continue with their education.

‎ Embu Athletics Kenya (AK) Chairperson Stephen Njeru said the race has also played a significant role in nurturing local athletic talent by giving athletes opportunities to compete at national and international levels.

‎ Meanwhile, Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, who was the chief guest, called for a review of the organization of the race to give it a stronger national outlook and attract more athletes from across the country.

He said with proper organization and requisite investment, the race can be used to market the Mwea game reserve as a tourist destination.

‎The reserve is home to an array of wild animals, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, gazelles and a wide range of bird species.

‎By Samuel Waititu