……. to Promote Preventive Health and Community Wellbeing
Waka Community International Foundation has announced the launch of Wakathon™ 2026, a large-scale community walking event aimed at promoting preventive healthcare, mental wellbeing, and social connection through the simple but powerful act of walking.
Scheduled for March 28, 2026, the event will begin at 7:00 AM from the Catholic Church of Divine Mercy on Admiralty Way. Organizers say the event is expected to attract thousands of participants from across Lagos and beyond in what is projected to become one of the largest community wellness walks in Africa.
Wakathon™ is a structured and inclusive community walking experience designed for people of all ages and fitness levels. Unlike competitive races, the event focuses on participation rather than performance, allowing participants to walk at their own pace in a supportive and engaging environment.
The initiative reflects the foundation’s mission to promote sustainable physical and mental wellbeing through simple everyday practices such as purposeful walking, balanced nutrition, hydration, adequate rest, and strength training.
According to the foundation, the philosophy behind the movement is simple: “Every waka matters.”
Founded to encourage healthier lifestyles through accessible wellness practices, Waka Community International Foundation has grown into a global movement with over 58,000 members across 48 countries. Through its digital platform, the Waka International App, members are able to track their wellness journeys, set goals, and connect with a supportive community committed to healthier living.
In a landmark moment for African wellness advocacy, the organization recently became the first Nigerian health-focused initiative to advertise on a Times Square billboard in New York, showcasing the global relevance of community-driven wellbeing initiatives.
The 2026 Wakathon will be held in honour of Ade Alakija and is being organized in collaboration with Q-Life and Health Emergency Initiative. The event will also feature health education, hydration awareness, responsible nutrition messaging, and advocacy for strength training to support healthy aging and prevent conditions such as sarcopenia.
Organizers say the event is not only about walking but about building a culture of preventive health across communities.
“Keeping fit and staying healthy is not just a trend — it is a shared responsibility,” the foundation stated.
Participants, organizations, and sponsors are encouraged to join the movement and support a global initiative that promotes healthier individuals, stronger communities, and long-term wellbeing.