Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) Conservation Commissioner Abdul-Razaq Badru joined hundreds of runners on Saturday, taking part in the 21-kilometre race during the third edition of the Fame Marathon in Karatu District, Arusha Region.
The marathon, organised by Fame Hospital, attracted about 650 participants from Tanzania and abroad, competing in the 21km, 10km, 5km and 2km categories.
Beyond promoting physical fitness, the event sought to raise funds to support emergency healthcare services and assist vulnerable patients receiving treatment at the hospital.
Speaking during the launch of the marathon, Mr Badru said sustainable conservation goes beyond protecting wildlife and natural resources, emphasizing the importance of working closely with communities living around conservation areas.
He said partnerships that improve social welfare, including access to healthcare, are critical to ensuring that conservation efforts deliver tangible benefits to surrounding communities.
“Sustainable conservation involves supporting programmes that improve the well-being of communities and bring hope to those facing various challenges, including health-related difficulties,” he said.
Fame Hospital Operations Director William Mhapa said the marathon is being held for the third consecutive year as part of efforts to mobilise resources for patients requiring emergency medical care and other forms of support.
He noted that the initiative also aims to strengthen community welfare programmes benefiting residents of Karatu, Ngorongoro and neighbouring districts.
The event highlights the growing role of sports-based fundraising initiatives in supporting healthcare services while bringing together public institutions, private organisations and local communities for a common social cause.
As participation continues to grow, organisers say the marathon is becoming an important platform for promoting healthy lifestyles, community solidarity and access to quality healthcare in northern Tanzania.
