Sabaki Estuary Wetland Marathon Launched

By Charo Banda

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

Various stakeholders in Malindi in Kilifi County have officially launched a half-marathon of about 21 kilometers aimed at highlighting environmental challenges, especially in the tourist town of Malindi.

It is part of efforts to fight marine pollution caused by plastic products and waste flowing from the Sabaki River with the long-distance race strategy aiming to bring together various stakeholders to address these challenges.

Speaking in Malindi after meeting stakeholders from various sectors such as hotels, security, environmentalists, county officials, and different environmental units, the environmental union Progress Welfare Association Malindi chairperson Kate Mwikali said the goal of the 21-kilometer half-marathon to be held along the Malindi coastline in November 28 — from Mambrui, Sabaki River, Vasco Da Gama Pillar to Marine Park in Casuarina — is to sensitize the entire community on the importance of conserving the environment, especially against plastic waste which has become a threat to marine life.

Mwikali said that since they started the monthly clean-up exercise for Malindi town and the beaches, their efforts continue to bear fruit, although companies and industries back in Nairobi continue to pose challenges, especially through the Sabaki River where most marine pollution passes.

She added that the race is an important step in informing the whole world that everyone has a responsibility to protect the environment through various methods.

Audrey Fabre, who is a manager at one hotel in Malindi, said efforts to keep the tourist town of Malindi at a high standard, especially on security and cleanliness, have greatly helped increase tourist numbers.

She urged stakeholders to turn out even more and support all efforts to strengthen a better environment along the beaches, Sabaki River, and Malindi town.

On his part, the security officer in the tourism unit in Malindi, Vicky Odhiambo said security is a crucial issue in these environmental protection efforts. He said security officers are making every effort to ensure those who break the law are dealt with accordingly, while assuring all stakeholders who will participate in the race to set aside fear, saying security will be enhanced even further.

The President of the European Business Institute, Dr. James Muli, said environmental conservation is a sensitive issue that requires cooperation among all stakeholders.

He said the long-distance race competition will bring a new outlook in tackling environmental pollution in the Coast region.