Embu: Hundreds of nature lovers from all walks of life yesterday graced the annual marathon to raise funds for the conservation of Njukiri Forest in which at least 1,000 new seedlings were planted. The event held at Camp Ndunda Falls in Embu County attracted fitness enthusiasts and adventure seekers, including athletics and fun activities, with the sole objective of promoting sustainable tourism.
According to Kenya News Agency, the 5th edition of the marathon culminated with the planting of over 1,000 trees to restore a degraded forest. Camp Dunda Falls' Head of Marketing, Superior Wangui, emphasized the event's focus on reducing the government's green footprint in the forest. Chairman of the Njukiri Community Forest Association, Jeremiah Njiru, reported that marathons have helped rehabilitate over 50 acres of forest land by planting indigenous trees.
Njiru announced plans to collaborate with Athletics Kenya (AK) to organize a full marathon to attract more participants and resources for forest restoration. "The goal is to boost local tourism while raising awareness about forest conservation," he said.
Njikuri East Conservancy Head Mercy Njeri Kariuki praised Camp Ndunda Falls for integrating tourism and conservation, significantly aiding in forest restoration. She emphasized that such efforts should be emulated by everyone in order to raise the country's tree cover to combat the effects of climate change.
Meanwhile, one of the participants, Babra Kwena, expressed pride in her participation in the event and expressed happiness in her contribution to environmental conservation. Another participant, Nicholas Mwangi from Kenyatta University, described the marathon as a challenging yet rewarding experience that went beyond just a run.