Dar set to host Sinza Kwa Wajanja Marathon next month

By Guardian Correspondent , The Guardian
Published at 08:00 AM May 04 2024
Kinondoni Municipal Mayor, Songoro Mnyonge (2nd R), launches the 2024 Sinza Kwa Wajanja Marathon in Dar es Salaam yesterday.
Photo: Guardian Correspondent
Kinondoni Municipal Mayor, Songoro Mnyonge (2nd R), launches the 2024 Sinza Kwa Wajanja Marathon in Dar es Salaam yesterday.

THE maiden edition of the race, termed 'Sinza Kwa Wajanja Marathon', has been scheduled to take place at the Posta grounds in Dar es Salaam on June 16.

The event will feature athletes competing in 21 kilometers, 10 kilometers, and five kilometers- according to Friends of Sinza Chairman Geofrey Mhando. 

Mhando noted that registration for the event has already begun and urged sports stakeholders to register to participate in the historic event.

He emphasized that apart from promoting sports development, the event aims to raise funds to support Dar es Salaam's Palestina Hospital maternity ward.

"We are committed to promoting good health in the country, which is why we have decided to organize this event. Some of the funds raised will be used to purchase health materials for the hospital's maternity ward," Mhando remarked.

"We recognize the significance of Sinza Palestina Hospital in Kinondoni District, covering not only the local area but also neighboring regions. It's essential to support it," the official noted.

He clarified that the race is open to all athletes nationwide and called upon them to participate in it. 

"The race serves to not only unite Sinza residents from various areas but also facilitate the exchange of ideas. Therefore, former Sinza residents and others from within and outside the country are invited," he added.

Mhando also said before the race gets underway, there will on June 15 be an exhibition of entrepreneurs at the Posta grounds, accompanied by various entertainment activities.

Kinondoni Municipal Mayor Songoro Mnyonge praised the organizers for coming up with initiatives that promote sports development and good health.

He encouraged sports stakeholders in the country to collaborate with the organizers to achieve their objectives.

"This is a brilliant idea, especially for the Sinza Kwa Wajanja Marathon, which is happening for the first time. I urge all stakeholders to support the organizers and participate in the event," Mnyonge, who launched the event, noted.

Kijitonyama Ward Councillor, Dama Lusangija, disclosed the race will encourage residents of the areas and its neighborhoods to adopt exercising and maintaining good health.

"We are grateful to the organizers for arranging these races, which are happening for the first time for the residents of Sinza and its environs," Lusangija remarked.

"This is a historic moment that will not only promote good health but also foster sports development," Lusangija noted.

Meanwhile, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Soty Mtaki from Kijitonyama Police Station stated that they are prepared to provide security for all participants before and during the showdown.