Swedish University Confers Honorary PhD on Kenyan Marathon Icon

NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 18 – The snowy Werve Rally tracks in Umeå, Sweden, lie over 7,200 kilometres away from Nakuru, Kenya. Yet, for veteran distance running star Dr Isaac Macharia Wanjohi, that vast geographical divide serves as the bridge for a 35-year promise centred on academic achievement and lifelong philanthropy. His incredible journey began in 1991. At just 13 years old, the young boy faced the agonizing reality of lacking a meagre Ksh100 bus fare to travel from Nakuru to Nyahururu. His family had recently relocated to their ancestral home, leaving young Isaac behind with a neighbour...

His incredible journey began in 1991. At just 13 years old, the young boy faced the agonizing reality of lacking a meagre Ksh100 bus fare to travel from Nakuru to Nyahururu. His family had recently relocated to their ancestral home, leaving young Isaac behind with a neighbour until his school term at Jomo Kenyatta High School wrapped up.

When his designated guardian failed to provide the travel money, Isaac refused to beg. Instead, he chose to walk the grueling 58-kilometre journey alone.

After covering 40 kilometres on foot, a kind-hearted stranger in Subukia noticed the exhausted teenager and paid for the remainder of his bus fare.

That single act of kindness altered his worldview forever. Stepping off the matatu, he made a silent vow: whenever it was within his power, no child would ever have to suffer the physical exhaustion and indignity he experienced just to access an education.

Source: Capital FM Sports