Zayed Charity Run in Ethiopia draws 4,000 athletes

Strong public turnout and cultural activities

Thousands gathered on the roads surrounding Meskel Square and within the designated event area from as early as 6:00 a.m., engaging with the accompanying programmes and morning activities organised by the Higher Organising Committee in cooperation with the local committee. The event featured performances by the UAE Al-Ayyala troupe, whose heritage shows were widely praised by Ethiopian audiences.

Winners in people of determination categories

In the men’s People of Determination category, Abibi Jimdinin secured first place, followed by Habtamu Wedi in second and Miki Defafa in third. In the women’s category, Meaza Jitu claimed first place, with Tigist Dugasa finishing second and Meaza Elias taking third place after a strong competition.

Elite category results

Alishign Bawike topped the elite women’s category, securing first place, followed by Shetu Gumi in second and Robi Dida in third. In the elite men’s category, Nebrit Kendai won first place, followed by Orgasa Nigasa in second, while Gezasho Mousa came third.

Prizes and humanitarian purpose

The organising committee confirmed that the total prizes, amounting to AED 150,000, added a competitive edge to the sporting aspect of the event, alongside its humanitarian objectives.

Officials and dignitaries in attendance

The winners were crowned by His Excellency Mohammed Salem Al Rashdi, UAE Ambassador to Ethiopia; Major General (Ret.) Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of the Zayed Charity Run; His Excellency Ahmed Sari Al Mazrouei, Secretary-General of the Emirates Red Crescent; Mekuria Mohammed Abadiqa, Ethiopia’s State Minister for Sports Development; world-renowned Ethiopian runner Haile Gebrselassie; and Olympic champion Meseret Defar.

His ExcellencyAref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, also attended as a participant in support of the event.

Continuing humanitarian mission

Major General (Ret.) Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi affirmed that the Zayed Charity Run continues its humanitarian journey with a new stop in Ethiopia, achieving remarkable success in the events held in the capital this morning. He noted that the race reinforces its global standing in providing humanitarian and medical assistance to patients and healthcare facilities, in line with the UAE’s vision and its leading role in supporting charitable and humanitarian initiatives worldwide.

Appreciation for support and cooperation

Major General (Ret.) Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the Ethiopian government, the Ministry of Sports, and all concerned entities for their strong cooperation and for providing all requirements that contributed to the success of this edition. He also praised the efforts of the UAE Embassy in Ethiopia for its collaboration and commitment to ensuring the necessary arrangements and measures, which had a clear and significant impact on the outstanding success achieved by this edition of the Zayed Charity Run.