AYV News, April 10, 2025
In a strong display of partnership and community commitment, Africell Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its support for vulnerable children by teaming up once again with Street Child of Sierra Leone to launch the 12th Edition of the Street Child Marathon. The announcement was made during a Press Conference held on Friday, April 4, 2025, at Africell’s headquarters on Pivot Street, Wilberforce.
It was intimated that the much-anticipated marathon is scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 4, 2025, in Makeni, the traditional host city with further information on how it will feature four race categories: 5K, 10K, 21K (half marathon) and 42K (full marathon); providing options for runners of all skill levels.
This year’s edition will not only celebrate athletic endurance and community engagement but also reinforces Street Child’s mission to provide educational access for vulnerable and underserved children across Sierra Leone.
During the launch, Nancy Toure, Events and Sponsorship Manager at Africell, highlighted the importance of the ongoing partnership, describing it as a bond akin to family.
“Our support goes beyond sponsorship. It’s about building communities and empowering the next generation through education and health,” she noted, calling on the public to participate actively for the betterment of society.
Kelfa Kargbo, Country Director of Street Child Sierra Leone, a major partner in the marathon, outlined the organization’s remarkable growth, from four staff in 2008 to nearly 300 employees, operating across 22 countries. He reaffirmed their ambitious target to support 45,000 children and 4,000 families over the next four years, primarily through educational access.
This year, the organization aims to build 22 junior secondary schools, complementing its ongoing annual goal of constructing 50 primary schools. He also announced a new project, backed by German partners, to provide financial assistance for families in slum communities to relocate to safer areas. The initiative will be facilitated through Afrimoney, ensuring smooth, transparent and secure financial transactions.
Additionally, Street Child plans to introduce a loan empowerment scheme for Street Child staff, enabling them to take on larger community projects and expand their reach beyond the organization.
John Konteh, Marketing Director of Afrimoney, emphasized the importance of digital innovation in enhancing this year’s marathon experience.
“Our partnership with Street Child is a strategic collaboration grounded in mutual growth and shared vision,” he stated.
John Konteh introduced a digital registration and payment system via Afrimoney, designed to eliminate inefficiencies in manual processes. Participants can now register by dialing 1624#, entering the Street Child code 76081 and following the prompts.
Registration fees for the marathon are as follows:
For Sierra Leoneans:
* Full Marathon: NLe75
* Half Marathon: NLe60
* 10K: NLe50
* 5K: NLe40
For Non-Sierra Leoneans:
* Full Marathon: NLe1,200
* Half Marathon: NLe900
* 10K: NLe700
* 5K: NLe600
Bobson Turay, Communications Manager at Street Child, expressed gratitude to the many sponsors who continue to support the marathon. Notable sponsors include Africell Sierra Leone, Maranpa Mines, Elephant Bet, GT Bank, Grafton Spring Water, The Place – Tokeh, Capitol Food, Coffee Courier, Sierra Leone Commercial Bank, Access Bank, Premium Design, Afrigas, Visit Makeni and Impact Foundation. He also acknowledged logistical support from the Sierra Leone Red Cross and security forces.
“The dedication of our sponsors, both returning and new, has been crucial to the success of this event. Their support in publicity, logistics and refreshments keeps the spirit of the marathon alive,” Bobson Turay said.
Makeni remains the “spiritual home” of the Street Child Marathon, as it marks the birthplace of the initiative both nationally and internationally. However, 2025 will see a significant expansion with plans to host a second edition in Bo in October, reflecting the growing impact of Street Child’s work across the country.
As excitement builds for this year’s event, the collaboration between Africell, Afrimoney, Street Child and a strong network of sponsors continues to inspire change; one step, one child, one race at a time.
