Addis ababa: The Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, is set to host the Zayed Charity Run for the first time at Meskel Square in the city center tomorrow. The race will cover a distance of 5 km and will see participation from men, women, and People of Determination.
According to Emirates News Agency, the local organizing committee has completed all technical and organizational preparations, ensuring that all requirements are in place for the race to commence at 7:00 AM. The participant lists for all categories have been finalized, and the race route has been established to start and finish at Meskel Square, where winners will be crowned.
The Higher Organizing Committee has announced significant prize money in Ethiopian Birr for various positions. First place in both men’s and women’s categories will receive 600,000, with prize amounts decreasing incrementally to 40,000 for tenth place. Additional prizes of 20,000 will be given for positions 11 to 40 in both categories. There are also separate prizes for People of Determination, with amounts ranging from first to 43rd place, each receiving 50,000. The total prize pool amounts to 3,790,000, equally divided between men and women, while the total prizes for People of Determination reach 2,150,000.
Participants from the UAE emphasized the event’s importance and its humanitarian values, highlighting its role in encouraging community engagement and worldwide participation. They noted the race as a key pillar of humanitarian work that enhances the UAE’s global standing in launching initiatives supporting patients and hospitals.
Runner Abdullah Surour Al Zaabi remarked on his participation as a humanitarian and sporting initiative that underscores the UAE’s role in supporting patients and charitable projects globally. Participant Saleh Al Hammadi emphasized their presence in Addis Ababa to support UAE initiatives and contribute to the race’s success, acknowledging its legacy and global status.
Participant Bakhit Mohammed described taking part in the race as carrying the UAE’s humanitarian message, noting strong interest from the local community. Abdulrahman Saleh added that the event is not just a sporting competition, but a gesture of love, cooperation, and humanitarian giving from the UAE to the world, reflecting a deep-rooted legacy and the leadership’s commitment to charitable and humanitarian work.