Cox’s Bazar to host Run4Peace on Oct 31 bringing together 400 participants : 7.5-km solidarity run to promote social cohesion, peaceful coexistence
Tawhidul Islsm, Cox’s Bazar
More than 400 people of different ages are expected to take part in Run4Peace, a 7.5-kilometre solidarity run on Cox’s Bazar beach on Saturday ( October 31) promoting peace, social cohesion and peaceful coexistence among diverse communities.
The event is organised by Embolden Bangladesh in association with ActionAid Bangladesh, the Society for Health Extension and Development (SHED) and the Cox’s Bazar District Administration.
The event is open to everyone, from first-time runners to experienced athletes. The run will begin at 6:00 am from Laboni Beach Point. The route will start at Laboni Beach Point, pass through Holiday Mor, Gungachh Tala and Notun Bridge, and return to Laboni Beach Point.
Organisers said the youth-led initiative aims to strengthen mutual understanding and cooperation among people from different backgrounds. Students, young professionals, members of youth networks and local residents are expected to participate. Sport has been chosen as a shared platform to foster relationships, build mutual trust and bridge social divisions.
Farah Kabir, Country Director of ActionAid Bangladesh, said, “Young people in Cox’s Bazar are leading the way in building peace and social harmony. Run4Peace is a powerful expression of that commitment. We are glad to stand with them and support this youth-led initiative.”
Md. Nazmul Ahsan, lead of the Youth, Resilience and Climate Justice team at ActionAid Bangladesh, said, “We stand with young changemakers in Cox’s Bazar. Youth must be empowered by all stakeholders to build peace and social cohesion. We hope the spirit of Run4Peace inspires positive change across society.”
Organisers are coordinating with local stakeholders to ensure the safety and smooth management of the event.
An award ceremony will follow the run at 7:30 am at Laboni Beach Point. The top three finishers in both the male and female categories will receive cash prizes and certificates of recognition. The top 10 runners in each category will also be recognised.
The event will be attended by Md. A. Mannan, Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate of Cox’s Bazar, as the Chief Guest, and Mohammad Shamsud-Douza, Joint Secretary, Government, as the Special Guest. Other distinguished guests will include Md. Abdul Alim, Head of Humanitarian Programme, ActionAid Bangladesh; Md. Rafiqul Islam FCA, Head of Finance and Administration, ActionAid Bangladesh; Md. Nazmul Ahsan, Lead, Youth, Resilience and Climate Justice, ActionAid Bangladesh; and Abdul Mannan, Deputy Director, SHED.
