On May 5th, 2024, hundreds of Kigali residents laced up their walking shoes on a sunny morning for the World Health Day Walkathon, a vibrant event led by young leaders from the Global Health Corps (GHC) fellowship program in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). 

The “Menya Ubuzima” Walkathon (Menya Ubuzima= Know Your Health) held on the famous Car-Free Day (which happens every first and third Sunday of the month) saw over 500 people from all walks of life taking part in the race to Kigali Heights from BK Arena and Kigali City main roundabout. 

More than just a walkathon, the event was a platform for youth-led health advocacy. GHC Fellows, young changemakers from around the world, spearheaded the organization, infusing the event with their energy and dedication. Their efforts fostered a dynamic atmosphere where participants weren't just exercising, but also engaging with informative booths and health professionals. Free health screenings on diabetes, blood pressure, vision, and breast cancer and information on sexual and reproductive health were offered to participants adding another layer of value, and enabling participants to get checked for a range of conditions.

"The Menya Walkathon wasn't just about physical activity; it was about empowering Rwandans to take charge of their health,” said Saruh Rusike, a GHC Fellow from Zimbabwe.

Health exhibition booths, managed by various stakeholders such as HDI, Urukundo Initiative, Kosmotive Rwanda, and the Association of Midwives in Rwanda, provided crucial information on preventive care and empowered individuals to make informed decisions about their health.

“As we commemorate World Health Day, it’s inspiring to see the synergy of diverse generations coming together to uplift their health and wellbeing. WHO is also excited to nurture youth leadership through working with organizations of young people like the GHC Fellows led the organization of the walkathon” said Dr Brian Chirombo, WHO Representative.

Observed every year on April 7th, since the inception of the World Health Organization in 1948, World Health Day is a vital platform for global health advocacy and awareness. With the 2024 theme centered around "My Health, My Right," this year's focus encompasses critical global health issues including environmental risks, infectious diseases, maternal and child health, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and universal health coverage (UHC).

The car-free day also coincided with the International Day of the Midwife, a day we celebrate the role of midwives, recognizing their contributions in improving care quality and reducing maternal and newborn mortality. 

“As we commemorate World Health Day, we also recognize how midwives significantly bolster the health of Rwanda. As frontline workers, midwives play a crucial role in ensuring resilient healthcare delivery even in the most challenging circumstances,” said Dr. Olugbemiga Adelakin, UNFPA Rwanda Country Representative 

Led by a 15-person youth cohort from seven African countries, including Rwanda, the walkathon saw successful participation from over 12 stakeholders in the health sector and drew a total of 2,138 participants. Of these, 1,638 visited screening booths for standard screening services, and over 1,150 visited exhibition booths featuring menstrual hygiene products, self-care items for sexual and reproductive health, and educational sessions on breast cancer screening, climate change, and nutrition.