Urafiki Race to foster friendship between Tanzania and India

What you need to know:
- The race, scheduled for December 30 and 31, will commence from Dar es Salaam and proceed to Bagamoyo in the Coast Region on the first day.
Dar es Salaam. The Urafiki race, a unique sporting event that will bring together runners from India and Tanzania, has been launched in Dar es Salaam on Friday, November 17.
The event, aptly named "Urafiki," meaning "friendship" in Swahili, aims to strengthen the cordial relations between the two countries and promote cross-cultural understanding through the shared passion for running.
The race, scheduled for December 30 and 31, will commence from Dar es Salaam and proceed to Bagamoyo in the Coast Region on the first day.
The second day will feature the return leg from Bagamoyo back to Dar es Salaam, covering a total distance of 120 kilometers.
The Acting High Commissioner of India to Tanzania, Manoj Varma, highlighted the significance of this event during the launch ceremony.
He emphasized the ongoing preparations for the race and expressed his enthusiasm for the participation of both Indian and Tanzanian runners.
Online registration for the race is now open, welcoming runners of all levels to experience this extraordinary sporting adventure. The organizers anticipate a diverse range of participants, eager to test their endurance and forge new connections.
Beyond the competitive aspect, the Urafiki race serves as a platform for fostering cultural exchange and strengthening the bond between India and Tanzania.
The event will provide an opportunity for athletes from both countries to share their experiences, learn from each other, and build lasting friendships.
Milind Soman, a renowned Indian veteran athlete, filmmaker, and fitness enthusiast, will lead the race. Soman, known for his active participation in various endurance events worldwide, expressed his excitement about bringing this unique experience to Tanzania.
"It's a privilege to be part of this initiative that brings together runners from India and Tanzania," Soman remarked.
"I'm eager to share my experiences and motivate fellow runners as we embark on this challenging yet rewarding journey."
As the runners embark on their 120-kilometer journey, they will not only challenge their physical limits but also forge bonds that transcend borders and foster a spirit of camaraderie that epitomizes the essence of Urafiki.