Dr Mzee Ngunga, a cardiologist based in Nairobi, marked his 50th birthday by running 50 kilometres at Parklands Sports Club.

The run began at 3 a.m., with Dr Ngunga braving the darkness and early morning chill, completing the distance in five hours.

Supporters were already present at the finish line to receive him.

Instead of holding a birthday celebration, Dr Ngunga used the run to raise funds for a performing arts amphitheatre and student dormitories at St Paul’s Kyanga Secondary School, a project he has been supporting since 2011.

“I only turn 50 once. I wanted this milestone to mean something beyond myself,” he said. “This run was about the children, giving them a safe space to learn, express their talents and dream bigger.”

Dr Ngunga has a background in long-distance running, but this 50km challenge was the most physically demanding he has undertaken.

He explained his involvement with the school, “We saw children loitering in the village due to lack of fees; we knew a local, affordable day school was the solution. With the new CBC system, the school has been categorised as an Arts School. To meet this potential, we must build a Multipurpose Hall where talent can thrive.”

The fundraising effort, called 50@50 for 50 Million Dreams, is ongoing, with contributions going toward completing the school’s facilities.