Join Us for the 17th Annual Strides for Africa Run/Walk

Strides for Africa’s 17th Annual Run/Walk is a family-friendly event that welcomes participants of all ages. This year’s in-person event will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at McPike Park in downtown Madison as part of the kickoff to Africa Fest 2026.

Participants can choose from a variety of race options, including a 5K run, a 5K walk, a 1.5-mile fun walk, a kids’ fun run (0.25 mile), and the signature Team Relay—an interactive experience that simulates the physical demands of collecting water in rural African communities.

Register Today

Proceeds from this event supports clean water and sanitation projects in underserved areas across Africa. Each registration contributes to efforts that improve health, expand educational access, and strengthen rural communities through locally led initiatives.

For participants and supporters, it’s a meaningful opportunity to connect local action with global impact.

Your Impact

Expanding Clean Water Access across East and West Africa

This year, Strides for Africa has the goal of raising $40,000 to support seven clean water and sanitation projects in Malawi, Tanzania, Sierra Leone, and Liberia. These efforts are guided by local input and focus on sustainable, community-led development.

Nimba County, Liberia – $12,000. Funds will support the installation of three hand pump wells at schools or communities in Nimba County. The projects are intended to address water-related challenges for both students and families in the surrounding areas.

Clean Water Access in Malawi – $10,000. Strides for Africa is continuing work in Malawi by funding a shallow borehole well in a rural village. The well is expected to provide consistent access to clean water for households with limited options.

Kabala, Sierra Leone – $10,000. Two new water points will be installed in Kabala to serve schools or communities in need. Community partners will help to identify locations as high-priority sites due to limited existing water access.

School Water and Sanitation Project in Tanzania – $8,000. This project includes the construction of improved latrines and a basic clean water system at a primary school. The goal is to improve hygiene conditions and support safer daily routines for students and teachers.

Each of these initiatives is designed in partnership with local organizations, with an emphasis on lasting functionality and community ownership.

Your Race Day Schedule

Whether you're running, walking, cheering, or volunteering, race day offers a meaningful way to take part in community and global impact.

Here's what to expect throughout the morning at McPike Park:

Now through August 13th
Online Registration is Open
Sign up online to reserve your spot in advance. This helps reduce wait times on race day and guarantees a smoother check-in experience.

Register Today

9:00 am – 9:45 am
August 15th | Day-of Registration
Arrive early to check in or register on site at McPike Park. Look for the registration tent to get started.

Our online registration closes on August 13th. Missed online sign-up? You’ll still have a chance to register in person on race day

10:00 am – 10:30 am
Kids Fun Run (0.25 Mile)
A lively, kid-friendly loop designed to spark excitement and introduce young runners to the joy of community races.

11:45 am
Awards & Giveaways
Head to the Main Stage at Africa Fest for recognition of race highlights and giveaways.

12:00 pm
Africa Fest Begins
Stick around for an afternoon of music, food, culture, and community celebration — all in support of sustainable change in Africa.

10:35 am – 11:30 am
1.5-Mile Fun Walk
A shorter, family-friendly option that welcomes walkers of all ages. This route offers a great way to be part of the event at a comfortable pace.

10:35 am – 11:30 am
1.5-Mile Team Relay
This team event mirrors the daily challenges of water collection faced in rural Sub-Saharan Africa.

Teams of 2–4 rotate through the course, symbolizing collective effort and shared purpose. Your involvement directly supports expanded access to clean water in the communities we serve.

10:30 am – 11:30 am
5K Run
This timed 5K run invites participants to challenge themselves on a scenic course through the park and the surrounding area.

10:30 am – 11:30 am
5K Walk
Enjoy a relaxed, untimed walk along the same route as the run — perfect for participants of all paces.

Join us at McPike Park

McPike Park | 202 S Ingersoll St, Madison, WI 53703

View Full Race Map

Strides for Africa is powered by volunteers, just like you!

If you’re interested in supporting the 2026 Strides for Africa Run/Walk, please complete the volunteer interest form.

For questions or additional information, contact us at strides4africa@yahoo.com.

Event Volunteer Meeting:
A brief volunteer meeting will be scheduled before the event—attendance is encouraged but not required. On event day, please plan to meet at the shelter in Madison’s McPike Park (202 S. Ingersoll St.) at 8:30 AM on Saturday, August 15, 2026.