Sunny skies and a cool forest morning set the stage for the inaugural Arabuko Sokoke Elephant Trail Run near Watamu, Kenya, at the weekend, attracting a field of 31 enthusiastic runners.

The competitors were drawn mainly from the Wanariadha Running Club alongside international runners from Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom, supported by nearly 50 volunteers and cheered by dozens of VIP’s who included the day’s chief guest, Dr Ruth Masha, Kilifi’s Sports executive, alongside George Hywel, Griot Consulting’s Global Director.

Griot Consulting specialize in the development, design, implementation, and financing of projects aimed at promoting renewable resources and mitigating environmental impact.

The weekend’s activation trail run was a preamble for the main Arabuko Sokoke Elephant Trail Run tentatively planned for June 28, 2025. 

Also present were Kilifi County Government executives, including Peter Mwarogo (Health), Lilian Mupuli of IFAW, Abdalla Kusso of Vipingo Ridge, Michael Owinga of Davis & Shirtliff who were joined by community members and leaders from across the area.