400 youths to join 7.5km ‘Run for Peace’ at Cox’s Bazar beach on Saturday

A solidarity run titled ‘RunForPeace’ will be held on Cox’s Bazar sea beach today to spread the message of social harmony, peace and mutual coexistence. People of various ages and professions, including more than 400 young people, will take part in the 7.5-kilometre run.

The programme is being organised by Embolden Bangladesh, in cooperation with ActionAid Bangladesh, the Society for Health Extension and Development (SHED) and the Cox’s Bazar district administration.

According to the organisers, the run will start at 6am from Labani Beach Point. It will pass through Holiday Mor, Gungachhatala and Notun Bridge, and end back at the same spot. The event is open to all kinds of runners, both new and experienced.

The organisers said the main aim of the initiative is to increase mutual understanding, cooperation and trust among people from different social and cultural backgrounds. Students, young professionals, members of youth networks and local residents will take part. The event is meant to encourage young people’s leadership in removing social divisions and building a harmonious and amicable society.

ActionAid Bangladesh Country Director Farah Kabir said young people in Cox’s Bazar are taking the lead in building peace and social harmony. She said ‘RunForPeace’ is a strong expression of that commitment, and that they are happy to stand beside the young people in this initiative.

Md Nazmul Ahsan, lead of the Youth, Resilience and Climate Justice team at ActionAid Bangladesh, said all stakeholders must come forward to empower young people in order to build peace and social cohesion. He expressed hope that the spirit of ‘RunForPeace’ will inspire positive change across society.

The organisers said steps have been taken to ensure the security and smooth management of the run through coordination with local stakeholders.

After the run, a prize-giving ceremony will be held at Labani Beach Point at 7:30am. The top three finishers in the women’s and men’s categories will receive cash prizes and certificates. In addition, the top 10 runners in both categories will be awarded.

Cox’s Bazar Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Md Abdul Mannan will attend the ceremony as chief guest. Joint Secretary to the government Mohammad Shamsuddoza will be special guest. Also present will be ActionAid Bangladesh Head of Humanitarian Programme Md Abdul Alim, Head of Finance and Administration Md Rafiqul Islam FCA, Youth, Resilience and Climate Justice lead Md Nazmul Ahsan, and SHED Deputy Director Abdul Mannan.