More than 70 nature enthusiasts are expected to take part in Saturday’s Karura Forest Walk, organised by The Warren Foundation, as the organisation launches a bold drive to raise Sh10 million for mountain guide training and enhanced safety on Kenya’s peaks.
The walk, running from 8 am to 11 am, will feature three distances—5km, 10km and 15km. Registration remains open online at Sh500 per participant.
Warren Foundation executive director Connie Chesire said while 70 participants is the minimum target, the foundation is optimistic numbers could rise to 100 or even 150.
“Since our launch in 2017, we have organised various events. This year, we settled on a walk in Karura. Registration is ongoing online and we hope to see over 70 participants,” she said.
Although the fundraising target is Sh10 million, Chesire said the foundation is prepared for any outcome. “The main goal is to fund our mountain guide training programme, but we welcome all contributions. Even if we don’t hit the target, the initiative remains vital,” she said.
The event is designed as a fun family outing, with dedicated children’s zones. Participants are welcome to bring their children. Children who can comfortably complete the 5km may join the walk, while others can enjoy the play section,” Chesire said.
Safety is a priority. Trained guides will accompany participants at a ratio of one guide per five walkers, equipped with first aid kits and stationed at designated water points along the route.
The walk will also host a distinguished guest, Madam Tessie Mudavadi, the wife of the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi. Partners for the initiative include Kenyatta University, Radio Africa Group and Sentinel School.
“KU has partnered with us since the foundation began, guiding outdoor safety,” Chesire said.
The overarching aim of the foundation’s mountain guide programme is to reduce injuries and prevent fatalities among outdoor enthusiasts.
“We plan to start the training programme in January, including a certified wilderness medical course. Our goal is to improve communication and safety on the mountains,” she said.
The Warren Foundation was established in 2016 following the tragic death of 14-year-old Warren Muga Asiyo on Mt Kenya due to altitude-related sickness. “The foundation was created by the family, and others affected to make Mt Kenya SAFE—Safe, Adventurous, Fun and Enriching,” Chesire said.
Over the past decade, the foundation has partnered closely with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to strengthen safety standards, particularly at the Naro Moru Park headquarters, improving climber safety and mountain operations.
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