Egerton University officially launched the 10th Edition of the Mau Cross-Country with a renewed commitment to environmental conservation. The launch event, held at the Botanic Garden, Egerton University, was marked by a symbolic tree-planting ceremony led by professional athletes and university officials. This year’s edition is dedicated to restoring Keringet Dam and Kenyatta Dam in Kuresoi South, Nakuru County, key water catchment areas crucial to environmental sustainability.
The launch was presided over by Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Bernard Aduda, who chairs the Run for Mau initiative, representing Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage, who was attending a university council meeting. In his speech, Prof. Aduda lauded the 10-year journey of the Mau Cross-Country, describing it as a flagship initiative for environmental awareness and conservation.
“For a decade, this initiative has been at the heart of Egerton University’s conservation efforts. It is not just about running; it is about safeguarding the future of our water towers and ensuring sustainability for generations to come,” said Prof. Aduda.
He further called on students, partners, and well-wishers to support the initiative, emphasizing that conservation requires collective effort.
Marketing Race Engages Students and Athletes
In a bid to generate momentum ahead of the main race, students participated in a mock cross-country run from Egerton University’s main gate to Njoro town and back, culminating at the University Sports Pavilion.
The marketing race was flagged off by elite athletes, including Ezekiel Kemboi, Mercy Cherono, Purity Chepkurui (10th Edition Ambassador), and Judy Kemunto, who also jogged alongside students to inspire them.
Joining the runners was Prof. Nzula Kitaka, Director of Marketing and Resource Mobilization, whose enthusiasm and leadership elevated the event to a level never seen before.
“This is more than just a race; it is a movement. We are engaging students and partners in an active way to champion conservation. The momentum we are building will ensure the Mau Cross-Country grows even bigger,” said Prof. Kitaka.
A Legacy of Conservation and Partnerships
At the Botanic Garden, guests were taken through a brief history of Egerton University’s conservation journey by Prof. Charles M’Erimba, detailing the impact of the initiative since its inception. The atmosphere was vibrant yet serene, with piped music and the natural sounds of rustling leaves blending to create a perfect setting for reflection and celebration.
Stakeholders who have supported the Mau Cross-Country since its inception were honored with certificates of appreciation, recognizing their dedication to the cause. In an overwhelming show of support, sponsors pledged cheques, cash donations, and in-kind contributions to sustain the initiative.
Among the notable sponsors were:
- KCB Bank
- Geminia Insurance
- Admark Limited
- Kenya Red Cross Society
- Defense University of Kenya
- Egerton University’s COELiB Media
- TAGDev
- Egerton Sacco
- Obed In The Wild
- Others
University Leaders and Alumni Rally Behind the Cause
The launch event was attended by senior university officials, including:
- Registrar Academic Affairs, Prof. Mwanarusi Saidi
- Principal, Egerton University City Campus College, Prof. George Morara Ogendi
- Dean, Faculty of Arts, Dr. Augustine Sam Muluvi
- University Librarian, Jane Grace
- Director, Board of Graduate School, Prof. Charles M’Erimba
- Director, Board of Undergraduate Studies, Prof. Micah Chepchieng
- University Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Nduati
- Chief Medical Officer
The Egerton University Alumni Association (EUAA) was also well represented by Chair Dr. Richard Rop, Secretary General Dr. Wamukuru Kuria, and Alumni Ambassador Kiogora, who pledged financial support towards the event.
“As alumni, we are committed to giving back to our university and supporting conservation efforts that align with global sustainability goals,” said Dr. Richard Rop.
Kuresoi North Deputy County Commissioner Albanus Ndiso graced the occasion, as the host of the conservation sites, Kenyatta Dam and Keringet Dams. He emphasized the significance of the initiative.
“This is a noble event that is in line with the presidential directive of planting 15 billion trees by 2032,” said Ndiso.
The Kenyatta Dam Community Based Organization leader, Mr. Bett Bernard, attended with a battery of members and expressed his gratitude to Egerton University for championing the conservation of the area.
“We have tried for many years but failed. Gladly, we have Egerton University leading other stakeholders to this site to conserve the colonial dam that is bedeviled by siltation,” said Bett.
A Growing Conservation Legacy
As Egerton University gears up for the main race, the event continues to build momentum as a platform for conservation, education, and community engagement. The success of the Mau Cross-Country over the last decade is a testament to the power of partnerships and shared responsibility in environmental conservation.
“We are not just running; we are making a statement. Conservation is a shared duty, and we must all take action,” concluded Prof. Aduda.
With strong institutional backing, committed stakeholders, and an engaged student body, the 10th Edition of the Egerton Mau Cross-Country is poised to make an even greater impact in safeguarding Kenya’s vital water towers.
"Running for a cause, planting for a future."
#EgertonMauCrossCountry #AthletesForConservation #RunForMau
By Kurian Musa, Egerton University
