THE third season of the health-oriented athletic event known as the Moyo Marathon will take place in Arusha on Sunday, September 28, with a renewed mission. At least 1,200 participants are expected to join the marathon, which organizers describe as a philanthropic initiative aimed at supporting children born with heart disease.

This year’s event is organized by the Arusha-based Moyo Medicare Specialized Clinic, with proceeds earmarked for the construction of a modern science laboratory at Saint Francis Secondary School in Boma Ng’ombe, Hai District, Kilimanjaro Region.

Sister Constantina Mosha, Head of Saint Francis Primary and Secondary School, explained that the institution also caters to pupils with special needs, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“The school has physically handicapped children who are nevertheless gifted academically and in extracurricular activities. Whenever they fall sick, it is usually the medical practitioners from Moyo Medicare who attend to them,” she said.

She noted that with the school now expanding to introduce Form Three classes, the need for a science laboratory has become urgent.

According to Moyo Marathon coordinator Hosiana Michael, the race will be flagged off at Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium in Arusha, with a fundraising target of 266 million/- for the laboratory project.

The event will feature a 21-kilometer half marathon, a 10-kilometer race, and a 5-kilometer family fun run designed for children. Various other games and entertainment activities are also planned.

Gerald Babu, chairperson of the Arusha Regional Athletics Association, commended the initiative, noting that community-focused marathons are always welcome.

Dr. Raphael Mwamakimbula, In-Charge of Moyo Medicare Clinic, said the specialized polyclinic focuses on non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery complications, and cardiovascular diseases. Operating for the past six years, the facility currently serves about 5,000 patients each month.