The Great Ethiopian Run, an annual celebration of sport and community, has long been more than just a race. For many, it serves as a platform for personal and collective expression, often amplifying the voices of those discontent with the status quo. Over the years, participants have seized the occasion to chant anti-government slogans, drawing attention to pressing societal issues.
However, the 2023 edition marked a stark departure from this tradition. Reports of arrests in previous years—where young men were detained by security forces and charged with “inciting violence”—may have set the tone for this year’s subdued atmosphere. Unlike the vibrant political undertones of past races, this year’s event was conspicuously devoid of such expressions, fueling allegations of government interference aimed at silencing dissent.
Sources revealed that organizers of the 24th edition, which drew a staggering 50,000 participants from diverse age groups and backgrounds, were warned against allowing the race to become a stage for political dissent. Haile Gebrselassie, the legendary Ethiopian Olympic gold medalist and co-founder of the event, reportedly pleaded with registrants in the days leading up to the run, urging them to avoid chanting or jeering during the race.
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At a press briefing held before the race, Haile emphasized that the race’s primary objectives were competition, enjoyment, community building, and charity. “This event is free from politics and religion,” he said. Still, he acknowledged the inevitability of spontaneous actions beyond the organizers’ control.
“Under normal circumstances, this would have been an excellent opportunity for the government to listen to the voices of the people,” said one participant, a legal expert who spoke to Reporter Magazine on condition of anonymity. “Unfortunately, those dissenting voices have been silenced this time, which bodes ill for freedom of expression.”
This year’s race, held under the theme “For Every Child, Nutrition,” showcased Ethiopia’s rich athletic legacy while promoting a global cause. The event attracted an impressive roster of world-class athletes, diplomats, expatriates, and recreational runners. Resident diplomats and prominent figures joined either the competitive race or the more casual fun run, underscoring the event’s widespread appeal.
Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, Tourism Minister Selamawit Kasa, and Health Minister Mekdes Daba were among the high-profile dignitaries present at the opening ceremony. Their participation underscored the race’s significance as a cultural and diplomatic fixture.
The Great Ethiopian Run, founded in 2001 by Haile Gebrselassie alongside Peter Middlebrook and Abi Masefield, has grown into a global phenomenon.
The 24th edition of the Great Ethiopian Run marked a significant milestone, earning recognition from the sport’s global governing body. “We have been recognized by World Athletics as one of the world’s most prominent events,” said Dagmawit Amare, general manager of the Great Ethiopian Run. “Receiving the Level-I certification in the four-level ranking system means our race is now an International Label Road Race.”
This recognition came after the race met a rigorous set of criteria, including sustainability, charity, course standards, crowd management, doping control, and strong cooperation with municipal authorities. Dagmawit told the Reporter Magazine that the event now ranks among the top ten global road races, just 10,000 participants shy of the Atlanta Road Race, which holds the record with 60,000 entrants.
In terms of charity, this year’s event raised over three million birr, contributing to a total of more than 36 million birr since the race’s inception 24 years ago. The funds benefit various charitable initiatives, with beneficiary lists provided by the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs. This charitable aspect underscores the Great Ethiopian Run’s role in not only promoting athleticism but also fostering social change.
The Great Ethiopian Run has become a symbol of Addis Ababa’s vibrancy as a cosmopolitan city. Hosting the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, as well as numerous other regional organizations, the race embodies Ethiopia’s position as a hub for international diplomacy and cultural exchange.
After the race kicked off from Meskel Square, Haile reflected on the event’s significance: “The Great Ethiopian Run has contributed to the country’s image as a tourist destination. It is more than just a road race.”
The event attracted not only Ethiopians but also international dignitaries. Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, and a host of government ministers were in attendance, along with UN and AU officials, and ambassadors from various countries.
US Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga, shared his experience on X, writing, “I had a GREAT time participating in the Great Ethiopian Run, along with 50,000 Ethiopians from all religions, linguistic groups, and regions. It was like a party, with music, fun, plus a healthy run or walk (I walked!). Entertaining, healthy, integrated, and peaceful activities are a great way to start 2025!” His post included a selfie of him among a sea of yellow-shirted participants.
While the event celebrated unity and health, it was not without its critics. One participant, claiming to be the former chairperson of the Young African Leaders RLC, labeled the event “the most disgraceful I’ve ever attended.” The individual criticized the “rude” behavior of certain male participants, accusing them of invading personal space and harassing women. “Never again,” she concluded.
Dagmawit acknowledged the occasional unruly behavior but reaffirmed the event’s commitment to addressing such issues. “We are serious about this,” she said. “We don’t want to see a single participant getting harassed. Over the years, we’ve made significant strides in changing attitudes, but there’s still work to be done.”
On the athletic front, the women’s competition saw Asayech Aychew cross the finish line first, while Biniam Mehari claimed victory in the men’s race, marking his second win at the prestigious event. Kenyan marathon record-holder Ruth Chepngetich attended as a guest of honor.
When asked about reports of dissenting voices being detained or attacked—incidents that marred some past events—Dagmawit responded, “Not that I know of; if there were such incidents, we would have been notified. There was nothing of that sort this time around.”
With 50,000 participants and counting, what began as a simple road race in Addis Ababa now serves as a symbol of resilience, hope, and community.
But this year’s subdued political climate raises questions about its evolving role. Can the run remain a space for unity and joy while denying room for dissent? Navigating a complex political landscape, and balancing the event’s celebratory nature with the country’s deeply rooted tradition of resistance, would likely decide the future of the Great Ethiopian Run.
Dereje Tegenaw and Nahom Tesfaye contributed to this article.
