Game-Changer: New Iten Training Camp Empowers Young Female Athletes, Tackles Gender Violence
“Out of five femicides in athletics, four are linked to intimate partner violence. If we mentor young people early, we can change these outcomes,” Harriette Chiggai

Harriette Chiggai (left) and Toby Tanser, founder of Shoe4Africa, at the All for Running Center in Iten. The facility offers more than athletic training, including a library, basketball courts, table tennis, and mentorship programs for children. (Photo by Emmanuel Sabuni)
A new training camp in Iten is set to transform the lives of thousands of young female athletes aged 8 to 10. The initiative, launched by Shoe4Africa in partnership with local leaders, aims to create a safe space for training, mentorship, and holistic development while addressing the twin challenges of gender-based violence and poverty.
Hon. Harriette Chiggai, the President William Ruto’s Advisor on Women’s Rights, officiated the launch of the All for Running Center and lauded its focus on supporting girls. “This initiative goes beyond athletics—it’s about protecting our children, providing them with opportunities, and creating safe spaces where they can thrive,” she said.
Addressing Violence Against Female Athletes
The camp’s mission is especially vital in light of the alarming rise in gender-based violence targeting female athletes in Kenya. The deaths of notable athletes, such as Agnes Tirop, have brought renewed attention to the dangers of intimate partner violence.
“We’ve seen too many tragedies within the athletics community. This facility offers more than training; it provides mentorship to teach young girls about their rights, safe spaces, and how to build resilience,” said Chiggai.
Empowering Through Sport and Education
The All for Running Center is designed to provide more than just athletic training. It features a library, basketball courts, table tennis, and mentorship programs for children. One of its standout initiatives is the Alpha Porridge Club, which will provide free breakfast to over 1,000 children daily.

Toby Tanser, founder of Shoe4Africa, highlighted the importance of the program in addressing hunger and its impact on education. “In this region, 80% of children in public schools attend classes on an empty stomach. A hungry child cannot focus or succeed in school. With the Porridge Club, we aim to change that,” he said.
The camp will also focus on academic and life skills development. Tanser emphasized the importance of building well-rounded individuals, saying, “Health, education, and sports are the keys to success. We want to ensure these children are prepared for life both on and off the track.”
Shoe4Africa’s Legacy
The All for Running Center is the latest in a series of impactful projects by Shoe4Africa, which has previously built six public schools and East and Central Africa’s first public children’s hospital. The organization is now constructing the region’s first children’s cancer hospital.
“We prioritize helping children and communities. This center is about giving young athletes the tools they need to succeed while also addressing broader societal issues,” Tanser added.
A Call for Collaboration
Chiggai called for collaboration between private organizations and the government to expand similar initiatives. “This is a model for how we can create meaningful change at the grassroots level. Professionals and organizations need to return to their communities and take action,” she said.
The center’s inclusivity extends to boys and girls alike, with programs designed to uplift entire communities. Chiggai also advocated for expanding the facility’s offerings to include financial literacy for older athletes and measures to combat violence.
“Out of five femicides in athletics, four are linked to intimate partner violence. If we mentor young people early, we can change these outcomes,” she added.
As Iten continues to solidify its reputation as the home of Kenyan athletics, the All for Running Center stands as a beacon of hope for the next generation of athletes, providing them with the foundation to excel and build a brighter future.