Safaricom CEO Run Returns to Rally Support for Lewa Conservation Efforts
More than 400 participants are expected to take part in the third edition of the Safaricom CEO Run this Saturday at Karura Forest as the company intensifies fundraising efforts ahead of the 2026 Lewa Safari Marathon.
Organized by Safaricom in partnership with Tusk, the annual event combines fitness, fundraising and conservation, bringing together corporate leaders, partners, employees and running enthusiasts in support of wildlife conservation and community development initiatives at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.
The run serves as a key precursor to the iconic Lewa Safari Marathon, which is scheduled to take place later this month and remains one of Kenya’s most impactful conservation fundraising events.
Running for Conservation and Community Impact
Participants in the CEO Run will compete across four categories, including the 21-kilometre half marathon, 15-kilometre race, 10-kilometre race and a five-kilometre walk, making the event accessible to runners of varying abilities and fitness levels.
According to Safaricom Chief Executive Officer Peter Ndegwa, the initiative reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to supporting conservation while creating opportunities that positively impact local communities.
“Through our long-standing support of the Lewa Safari Marathon, we have witnessed firsthand how sport can transform lives by unlocking access to education, healthcare and sustainable livelihoods for communities around Lewa,” said Ndegwa.
“This shared impact continues to inspire us to go even further through initiatives like the Karura Run, which brings together our partners, corporates, friends and young people to participate, raise funds and strengthen conservation efforts.”
Employees Driving Change Through the Lions of Lewa
A highlight of this year’s event will be the participation of the Lions of Lewa, a dedicated team of Safaricom employees who actively champion fundraising for conservation and community development initiatives.
The group has become a key force behind the company’s fundraising efforts and has consistently ranked among the top contributors to the Lewa Safari Marathon since its formation in 2019.
Over the years, the Lions of Lewa have raised more than KES 1.2 million annually to support conservation projects, demonstrating how employee-driven initiatives can contribute meaningfully to environmental protection and social impact.
Strengthening a Long-Term Conservation Partnership
Earlier this year, Safaricom announced a KES 10 million contribution towards the 2026 Lewa Safari Marathon, reinforcing a partnership that has spanned more than two decades.
The support forms part of broader efforts to protect Kenya’s wildlife, preserve critical ecosystems and improve livelihoods for communities living around conservation areas.
The 2026 Lewa Safari Marathon, set for 27th June, is expected to attract more than 1,500 participants from Kenya and around the world.
Since its inception, the marathon has raised more than KES 850 million, making it one of Africa’s most successful conservation fundraising events.
Of this amount, more than KES 400 million has been invested directly in protecting endangered species, conserving wildlife habitats and supporting environmental sustainability initiatives across Kenya.
Sport as a Force for Good
Over the years, the Lewa Safari Marathon has evolved beyond a sporting event into a platform that demonstrates the power of collective action in addressing environmental and social challenges.
By bringing together corporate sponsors, conservation organizations, athletes and local communities, the initiative continues to generate resources that support education, healthcare, wildlife protection and sustainable economic opportunities.
As participants gather at Karura Forest for this year’s CEO Run, they will not only be preparing for one of Kenya’s most unique marathon experiences but also contributing to a conservation legacy that continues to protect wildlife and transform lives.
