The city of Djibouti is abuzz with the rhythm of a half-marathon dedicated to Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.

Date de l'événement : 2025-02-23

DJIBOUTI, February 22, 2025 (ADI) – As dawn broke, the city awoke to the sound of footsteps. This morning, Djibouti vibrated to the rhythm of a half-marathon dedicated to the victory of Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, who was recently elected to the presidency of the African Union Commission. Organized by the Djibouti City Hall, with the support of the Chinese group Touchroad International and the Djiboutian Athletics Federation (FDA), this sporting event sparked a popular fervor. Transformed into an open-air stadium, Smart City saw thousands of runners – amateur athletes, military personnel, and passionate individuals – take off over three distances: 5 km, 10 km, and 21 km. At the starting line, a lineup befitting a grand occasion: Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed, Mayor of Djibouti Said Daoud Mohamed, Secretary of State for Sports Hassan Mohamed Kamil, high-ranking military officials, as well as representatives from the private sector and diplomats, including the Chinese Ambassador Hu Bin and delegates from the Chinese group Touchroad International. Then, the starting signal. Powerful strides, eyes fixed on the horizon, bodies at their limits. On the asphalt, the sporting confrontation lived up to all its promises. Special mention goes to Ayeh Farah Ayeh (Coast Guard), winner of the men's main event (21 km), and Zouhra Ali Mohamed (Republican Guard), who triumphed with flair in the women's category. In the men's 10 km, Hassan Gouled Elmi (Coast Guard) showcased his strength to claim victory. But this half-marathon was not just a race. It was a message. A vibrant tribute to Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, now at the helm of the AU. "What we celebrate today is Djibouti, its greatness, and its unity," declared Mayor Said Daoud Mohamed. The Prime Minister praised the initiative, which embodies strong values, reminding everyone that "sports is a school of life and a driving force for national unity." Chinese Ambassador Hu Bin also emphasized the role of sports in bringing people together, applauding the organization of an event that "strengthens the ties between Djibouti and its partners." Committed to promoting sports, Djibouti City Hall now aims to make this half-marathon an annual event and promises an even more grandiose edition in 2026.