Addis ababa: The organising committee of the Zayed Charity Run announced the completion of all arrangements for the global event, scheduled to take place next Sunday at Meskel Square in Addis Ababa.
According to Emirates News Agency, the announcement was made during a press conference at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in the Ethiopian capital. The event was attended by key figures including Mohammed Salem Al Rashdi, UAE Ambassador to Ethiopia; Lieutenant General (Ret.) Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Supreme Organising Committee; Ahmed Sari Al Mazrouei, Secretary-General of the Emirates Red Crescent Authority; and Mekiyo Mohammed Abadiga, State Minister for Sports Development in Ethiopia.
The UAE Al Ayyala troupe contributed with heritage performances from Dubai to Addis Ababa, drawing wide appreciation. Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi stated that the Zayed Charity Run transcends sport, serving as a global humanitarian platform inspired by the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He emphasized that hosting the event in Ethiopia demonstrates the UAE's dedication to promoting the values of giving, as part of a humanitarian legacy initiated in 2001.
Al Kaabi highlighted that the participation of 50 runners from the UAE signifies the spirit of unity and diversity embodied by the slogan 'We Run for Giving', encouraging communities to unite in support of humanitarian causes. He conveyed expectations of strong community engagement and a successful edition, reinforcing the event's role in supporting patients worldwide.
Ahmed Sari Al Mazrouei announced financial support of US$300,000 for children's heart hospitals in Ethiopia, affirming a continued commitment to healthcare initiatives. He stated that the run exemplifies a sustainable humanitarian model that fosters cooperation and positively impacts communities.
Mekiyo Mohammed Abadiga expressed enthusiasm for hosting the event in Addis Ababa for the first time, underlining its humanitarian significance and praising collaboration with UAE entities. He noted that the initiative reflects strong engagement across different age groups and strengthens sports cooperation between the two countries.