The charity marathon brought together government leaders, private sector representatives, partners and 1,900 participants, exceeding the organisers’ initial target of 1,800 runners
Dar es Salaam. The CRDB Bank Congo Marathon has raised $100,000 (Sh270 million) to support people living with albinism, turning the annual sporting event into a platform for promoting inclusion, dignity and community solidarity.
The charity marathon brought together government leaders, private sector representatives, partners and 1,900 participants, exceeding the organisers’ initial target of 1,800 runners.
The funds raised will be used to purchase healthcare equipment and protective supplies, including skin protection products, for people living with albinism.
Speaking during the event, CRDB Bank Congo Managing Director Dr Jessica Nyachiro said the marathon reflected the bank’s commitment to supporting communities through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs.
“Through our unity and love for our community, we have come together to spread smiles among our people, particularly our brothers and sisters living with albinism,” said Dr Nyachiro.
She explained that CRDB Bank Congo’s CSR policy directs one per cent of the bank’s annual profits towards community development initiatives, especially in health, education and environmental conservation.
“Our bank recognises that the wellbeing of any society depends on the contribution of every individual. We have a responsibility to participate in creating a safe and supportive environment where everyone can fully engage in social and economic activities,” she said.
Dr Nyachiro said the decision to dedicate this year’s marathon to people with albinism was aimed at raising awareness and mobilising support for a community facing unique challenges. Quoting the International Albinism Awareness organisation, she said:
“Protection from the sun is not a luxury for persons with albinism; it is a matter of life and dignity.” She added that society has a responsibility to ensure people living with albinism receive access to healthcare services, protective equipment and the dignity they deserve.
The Speaker of the Haut-Katanga Provincial Assembly, Michel Kabwe, praised CRDB Bank Congo for using sport .s a tool to create social impact.
“This is not an ordinary race. It is a race of solidarity, a race of hope and a race carrying a message of dignity for our brothers and sisters living with albinism,” said Kabwe.
He said people living with albinism continue to experience challenges, including health concerns, limited access to protective materials, lack of awareness and discrimination.
Kabwe assured that the government would continue working with partners to promote inclusion, improve healthcare access and protect the rights of people with albinism.
“Those with albinism are our lights shining uniquely in the darkness of challenges. As a nation, we declare we will not leave them behind. We will run alongside them, protect them and love them,” he said. CRDB Bank Congo Board Chairman Dr Ally Laay said the marathon demonstrated the bank’s commitment to impact investment and partnerships that improve lives.
“Our bank believes strongly in impact investment — investments that create positive change in society. Through the CRDB Bank Marathon, we are living out that commitment,” Dr Laay said.
He emphasised that challenges facing people with albinism require collective action from the government, private sector and society.
