Busia Cross-Border Run 2026: Tree Planting Kicks Off Final Preparations Ahead of Kenya-Uganda Event
According to the event organiser Collins Odera, all logistical and security measures have been put in place to ensure the event’s success.
Participants and leaders take part in a tree planting exercise in Busia County ahead of the 6th Cross-Border Run, promoting environmental conservation and regional unity. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Busia County has launched final preparations for the 6th Cross-Border Run with a major tree planting exercise, setting the stage for the main event scheduled for Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the Busia Vocational Training Centre.
Organisers say all logistics and security arrangements have been finalised to ensure a smooth and successful event. According to event organiser Collins Odera, the race is expected to attract participants from both Kenya and Uganda, highlighting regional cooperation and unity.
“All logistical and security measures have been put in place to ensure the success of this year’s event,” Odera said.
The flagship 15-kilometre cross-country race will see athletes cross into Uganda before returning to Kenya for the finish line, symbolising the strong ties between the two neighbouring countries. In addition, shorter races of 10 kilometres and 5 kilometres will be held within designated areas around the venue.
Odera noted that beyond competition, the event is designed to identify and nurture emerging athletic talent, particularly among young people.
“The aim of the run is to identify and nurture upcoming athletes. That is why we are involving institutions to scout talents from schools, colleges and universities,” he explained.
The initiative is spearheaded by the Osiya Foundation, whose founder Johnrich Ekasiba emphasised that the event goes beyond sports, focusing on environmental conservation and community development.
“We are planting trees for the future. So far, we have covered 30 kilometres in Kenya from Korinda Prison and will extend the exercise into Uganda. We have mobilised over 10,000 students to continue the initiative across markets, schools and churches,” Ekasiba said.
He added that the foundation’s key focus areas include promoting Kenya-Uganda unity, advancing health and wellness, supporting talent development, and driving environmental conservation efforts.
This year’s run, themed **“Transforming Footsteps into Conservation Action,” has attracted about 1,000 athletes from both countries, with international scouts expected to attend in search of new talent.
As part of the build-up activities, organisers oversaw the planting of more than 20,000 tree seedlings along the Busia–Mumias Road between Korinda and Munami. In addition, 5,000 grafted mango seedlings were distributed to 22 schools along the route to support long-term environmental sustainability.
The tree planting exercise drew participation from leaders from both Kenya and Uganda, including Uganda’s Deputy Resident District Commissioner Abdul Nasser, Nambale Assistant County Commissioner Sheila Lang’at, and Kenya Forest Service Western Regional Commissioner Stephen M. Chessa.
Beyond athletics and conservation, the event will also feature a free medical camp, where healthcare workers from Busia County Referral Hospital and other facilities will provide treatment to residents.
The annual cross-border run continues to grow in prominence, serving as a platform for promoting environmental awareness, healthy living, and regional integration.
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