Over the years, the Mater Heart Run has served as a beacon of hope for countless children with heart conditions.
The run is geared towards raising funds for children with heart conditions, thus supporting the “Touch a Child’s Heart” mission.
It continues to give them a fighting chance at life; allowing them to run, play and learn.
According to materkenya.com, over 3,000 children have received free surgeries and treatment.
Making a profound difference in the lives of underprivileged children across the country.
The County government of Kisumu has been an integral part of this noble initiative, which continues to have a lasting impact on children in the county.
Earlier today, Kisumu County Deputy Governor Dr Mathews Owili officially kicked off the 2025 Mater Heart Run – Kisumu Chapter.
In a speech by the Deputy Governor, Governor Nyong’o described the event as a journey of hope, compassion, and community solidarity.
“It transforms lives by enabling children with heart conditions to receive vital surgeries. Thank you to Mater Hospital and their partners for their invaluable support in human service,” Owili stated at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Ground.
He made a contribution of Sh 200,000 on behalf of Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o, demonstrating their commitment and support towards the Mater Heart Run.
Kisumu County Deputy Governor Dr. Matthews Owili (L) presented a dummy cheque for Sh 200,000 to the organizers of the Mater Run 2025. This contribution will significantly support the life-saving humanitarian cause. Photo Courtesy.
Governor Nyong’o further expressed profound gratitude to the event organizers for their unwavering dedication and commended partners.
Moreso to the official banking sponsors for their; “exemplary corporate citizenship in supporting the run, and broader social initiatives like education and youth empowerment.”
“Every step you take today is a step towards health for a child. You are not just running a race; you are running to mend a heart.”
The Mater Heart Run began in 2002 as one of the fundraising initiatives for the Cardiac Program.
The idea was born after the realization that a huge number of children developed cardiac heart issues.
“They had no recourse to quality medicare and were destined to a sickly life and premature deaths,” the website statement reads in part.
The Heart Run was initially held in Nairobi but has steadily risen to be held in various different towns, namely Nairobi, Mombasa, Machakos, Kakamega, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, Nyeri, Kericho & Bomet.
The County Executive Committee Members (CECM) who accompanied DG Owili; Salmon Orimba (Public Service, County Administration and Participatory Development), Beatrice Odongo (Sports, Culture, Gender and Youth Affairs), and Kisumu City Manager, Abala Wanga.
Chief of Staff Aloice Ager, Director of Protocol Bob Madanji, and other representatives from the county government and Mater Hospital were also in attendance.
