“From the moment I first joined this event, I knew it was an experience I never wanted to miss. The sense of unity and camaraderie that pervades the atmosphere here is truly the heart of this run,” said Kekron Asfaw, a two-time winner of the Icon Women category at the Safaricom Women First 5km. This year, the event took place on March 29, 2026, in Bole, Ethiopia, and attracted over 16,000 registered participants, making it one of the largest women’s-only road races in Africa.
The race, which included over 150 elite female athletes, aimed to promote messages celebrating women’s contributions to Ethiopia’s development. Asfaw’s sentiments reflect the spirit of the event, which has become a significant platform for raising awareness about various issues affecting women, including health and family planning.
In 2026, the race’s theme was “Live Smart Run Confident,” focusing on the importance of family planning. The event not only encourages physical fitness but also serves as a rallying point for women to come together and support one another in their health journeys. Meseret Defar, a two-time Olympic gold medallist, served as the race ambassador and emphasized the importance of consistent training among participants.
“Mesi’s sub-35 minute challenge aims to incentivise participants to run consistently throughout the year,” Defar explained, highlighting the race’s commitment to fostering a culture of health and fitness among women. This year, the winner of the race received a prize of 100,000 Ethiopian birr, the highest-ever individual prize in the race’s history, further motivating participants.
Birnesh Deseie, who won the race last year, successfully defended her title, showcasing her remarkable talent and determination. The event also saw Kekron Asfaw winning the Icon Women category for the second time, reinforcing her status as a leading athlete in the women’s running community.
The Safaricom Women First 5km has been held annually around International Women’s Day, emphasizing the importance of women’s empowerment and health. Over the years, it has grown in participation and significance, becoming a symbol of strength and resilience for women in Ethiopia.
As the event concluded, participants and organizers alike expressed their commitment to continuing this tradition of empowerment and awareness. The success of the race this year sets a hopeful tone for future events, with expectations for even greater participation and impact in the years to come.
