Egerton University came alive with energy, color, and purpose as staff, partners, and sponsors took part in the annual Mau-Egerton cross country. The day began with the 4-Kilometre race for University staff. Men and women under 55 gathered early at the starting line. Stretching, warming up, and sharing smiles, participants were ready.
This was more than a race. Every stride carried a message: fitness, teamwork, and environmental awareness.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage flagged off the first category. “Run smart. Run safe,” he reminded the runners. In his remarks, he emphasized that the race was designed to sensitize the community, partners, and stakeholders about the urgent need for environmental conservation in the wake of climate change. Climate change, Prof Kibwage said, is no longer a distant threat—it is here, affecting ecosystems, livelihoods, and communities.
The runners responded with determination. Some pushed for top positions, while others paced themselves steadily. Colleagues cheered from the sidelines. Water points offered brief refreshment. Every stride reflected discipline, commitment, and a shared message of environmental stewardship. The race demonstrated that endurance on the track mirrors the resilience needed to protect and restore the environment.
After the race, the Vice Chancellor received the Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Eng. Festus Ng’eno. He is also Patron of the Mau Forest Complex–Integrated Conservation and Livelihoods Improvement Programme (MFC-ICLIP).
Prof. Kibwage was joined by Council Member Mohamed Ahmed, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration, Finance and Planning) Prof. George Muthaa, Director for Marketing and Resource Mobilization Prof. Nzula Kitaka, Njoro Sub-County Administration officers, officials from Athletics Kenya, and Mau-Egerton Brand Ambassador Purity Chepkirui, along with members of the University Management team.
The delegation proceeded to the Botanic Garden for ceremonial tree planting. Each tree symbolized growth, renewal, and a shared responsibility to safeguard natural resources. The group later toured the Flower Garden, showcasing Egerton University’s commitment to maintaining a green and sustainable campus. Eng. Ng’eno praised the University for its clean and green environment and invited the institution to extend its conservation efforts to the Kenyatta Dam site.
Representatives of the First Daughter, Sharlene Ruto, were also present. They were led by staff from the SMACH Foundation, adding more weight to the conservation message. Their participation highlighted the importance of collaboration between communities, government, and advocacy organizations in environmental protection.Adding to the excitement, KCB Group joined the cross country with pomp and color. Bank officials delivered a dummy cheque in support of Egerton University’s conservation initiatives. Vice Chancellor Prof. Kibwage received the Ksh. 2 million cheque, joined by University leaders and dignitaries. All sponsors were acknowledged for making the cross country successful.
Their support, combined with the energy of staff and participants, made the event a powerful statement of partnership, action, and commitment to the environment.
The day reflected Egerton University’s integrated approach to promoting wellness, environmental awareness, and leadership by example. The activities highlighted that sport and advocacy can go hand in hand, showing that environmental conservation is not limited to policy papers—it is visible, actionable, and community-driven.
At the finish line, every runner was celebrated. Completion was honored alongside victory, reinforcing the idea that every contribution, no matter the size, matters.
The event strengthened bonds across departments and showcased Egerton University’s commitment to creating a culture of wellness, sustainability, and community engagement.From the first stride in the 4-Kilometre race to the ceremonial tree planting and the support of sponsors and partners, the day was a powerful demonstration of action for a cause.
Staff, students, partners, and corporate supporters came together to protect the Mau ecosystem, promote environmental consciousness, and inspire collective responsibility.
The message was simple and clear: protect the environment, restore the Mau, and embrace climate-conscious action. Egerton University has once again shown that running for fitness can also mean running for the planet. Every step mattered. Every effort counted. Together, a greener future is within reach.
