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On April 13th, 2025, Juza Waste Pickers Initiative (JWPI) once again had the honor of participating in the Run for Sight Marathon, a powerful movement powered by Lions Club International – District 411C Tanzania. This annual event is more than just a race, it’s a mission to bring essential eye care to underserved communities. With a goal to fund 1,000 cataract surgeries, engage 1,500 participants, and screen 10,000 individuals, the 2025 edition was both impactful and inspiring.

This year’s event was graced by a very special Guest of Honor Hon. Ridhiwan Kikwete, the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Youth, Employment, and Persons with Disability). His presence reaffirmed the national importance of accessible eye health and community well-being. We are proud to continue our tradition of participating in the annual Run for Sight Marathon, an inspiring event that unites thousands of individuals for a greater cause. 

The marathon offered two inclusive route options, a 5KM and 10KM run welcoming beginners, casual runners, and families alike. Whether running solo or in groups, participants were energized by the beautiful scenery and the powerful cause behind every step.

Without access to eye care, children struggle in school, and adults lose productivity. But through events like Run for Sight, barriers are broken and hope is restored. Every registration, every runner, every supporter contributes to the mission of vision for all. We see this as more than just an event, it’s a movement of compassion, one that aligns with our core values: environmental sustainability, public health, and community empowerment.

The impact of the Run for Sight Marathon continues to grow year after year. In 2023, the initiative raised 41 million TZS, screened 6,027 individuals, and enabled 453 cataract surgeries. In 2024, the momentum soared with 58 million TZS raised, 7,960 people screened, and 502 cataract surgeries conducted. These numbers are not just statistics, they represent real lives changed and communities uplifted through the gift of sight.

We believe in the power of partnerships and community action to bring change. We were honored not only to participate in the run but also to be awarded a certificate of recognition for our dedicated role in waste management and environmental sanitation at the event. From cleaning marathon grounds before the run, to conducting post-event waste collection, sorting, recycling, and safe disposal, our team ensured that the event left a positive mark on both people and the planet.

We were proud not only to run but to serve as environmental stewards throughout the event. Waste pickers often overlooked yet absolutely essential workers who took the lead in managing, collecting, sorting, and recycling waste generated during the event. From early morning preparations to post-race clean-up, waste pickers ensured that the marathon grounds remained clean, safe, and environmentally responsible. Their work minimized pollution, promoted recycling, and showcased the power of dignified green jobs in creating sustainable public events.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the organizers for recognizing our role. Together, with every step taken and every person reached, we continue building a future where good health, clean environments, and inclusive development go hand in hand.