The Run for Binti Marathon, an annual charity race aimed at improving education and health standards for students in marginalized areas, has successfully transformed the environment at Mnyawi Secondary School in Mtwara. This year’s efforts led to the construction of modern latrines with 12 stalls for both boys and girls. Additionally, over 200 female students received reusable sanitary pads, a move aimed at enhancing their health and hygiene.
The marathon also provided critical education to students and the community in partnership with stakeholders such as Stanbic Bank Tanzania, Marie Stopes Tanzania, and Girl Guide Tanzania. Topics covered included: Gender-Based Violence awareness, Financial literacy, Menstrual hygiene and reproductive health ,Environmental conservation through tree planting, Training on clean energy solutions.
The Run for Binti Marathon is organized annually by Smile for Community in collaboration with the Legal Services Facility (LSF), marking three years of impactful community engagement.
Speaking on the contributions made through the marathon, the Executive Director of Run for Binti, Ms. Flora Njelekela, highlighted the expansion of the marathon’s reach. “The second and third editions of this marathon have greatly impacted the Mtwara community. Last year, the initiative reached Nanyamba Secondary School, and this year, we are supporting Mnyawi Secondary School. The donations include a 12-stall latrine, tree planting, and reusable sanitary pads. These contributions have significantly improved education and health standards. I sincerely thank all stakeholders for their support in making the 2024 marathon a success.”
The Guest of Honor, Mtwara District Commissioner Abdallah Mwaipaya, expressed his gratitude to stakeholders for their efforts and commended the initiative’s positive impact. “I deeply thank the stakeholders for choosing Mtwara for these vital projects. These improvements will benefit students and the entire Mtwara community. I urge the community to use this opportunity to address challenges such as early marriages and support women’s economic and decision-making roles. I also encourage schools to nurture the trees planted and maintain the infrastructure provided.”
LSF representative, Ms. Jane Matinde, acknowledged the stakeholders' efforts in making this year’s marathon a success. She also announced the official commencement of preparations for the Run for Binti Marathon 2025, which will align with Menstrual Hygiene Week.
Stanbic Bank’s Head of Business, Ms. Doreen Dominic, reiterated the bank’s commitment to giving back to the community. “As Stanbic Bank, we believe in reinvesting in society. Our support for financial literacy, environmental conservation, education, and girls’ health reflects our vision of nurturing a knowledgeable and healthy future generation. Our contributions aim to uplift both boys and girls, particularly those in marginalized areas.”
The Run for Binti Marathon 2024 was supported by various stakeholders, including:
Stanbic Bank Tanzania, Songas, East Africa Law Society, Azam Media, Girl Guide Tanzania, Marie Stopes Tanzania, NMB Bank, Kilimanjaro Water, SGA Security, Mlimani City ,Tronix Generator, Msichana Initiatives, Sxulit Army.
Over 800 participants joined this year’s race, contributing to the cause and furthering the mission of improving education, health, and community development in Tanzania.
