By Janeth Mesomapya

The Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA) has joined hands with other organizations to sponsor a charity marathon organized by the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC).

The marathon is scheduled to take place on September 11, 2022 at the Farasi grounds, Masaki in Dar es Salaam and includes a 5, 10 and 21km race.

Speaking at the marathon launch, TPDC Managing Director Dr. James Mataragio thanked PURA and other sponsors for being part of the marathon that is aimed at supporting cardiovascular treatment for children at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI).

"Through this race we hope to raise funds that will help to treat 50 children at JKCI, so the participation of the sponsors and all those who will be part of the marathon is the pathway to make this goal a success," he explained.

JKCI’s Managing Director Dr. Mohammed Janabi said that there are currently 511 children waiting for heart surgery and that the cost of surgery ranges from at least eight million shillings.

"Cardiovascular surgery is expensive because all equipment is provided abroad, however part of the cost is contributed by the government and various stakeholders as TPDC has done," he added.

Dr. Janabi noted that a total of 2 million children are born each year in the country, 1% of whom are born with heart diseases, and 25% of those require surgical treatment.

The marathon is expected to be led by the former President Hon. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete as the guest of honor.