Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria on Sunday met with Ugandan Members of Parliament along the Busia border separating the two counties.
The CS had been invited by Busia Governor Paul Otuoma to flag off three marathon races aimed at fostering unity between the communities living across the border.
Kuria described the trip as a working visit to the county which was also expected to boost health awareness through sporting activities.
"The race, not only brings together the residents of Busia in a unity of purpose but also promotes the need for health awareness and general wellness through sports." the CS stated.
"The 3 part race, divided into 5km, 10km, and 15km, leading to Uganda, is a notable testament of the close ties we continue to foster with our neighbors across borders."
Kuria was joined by a slew of other leaders among them MSME Principal Secretary Susan Mangeni as well as Teso South MP Mary Emase.
The five Ugandan members of Parliament and Members of the Busia County Assembly (MCAs) were also in attendance.
While welcoming the delegation, the CS thanked Ugandan President for throwing his weight behind former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's candidature at the Africa Union Commission.
"I am happy to be here for the cross-border marathon. Apart from Marathon, advocated for unity between Kenya and Uganda. I welcome you in the spirit of the East African Community," he stated.
"Send our greetings to Museveni and let us carry on with our trade agreements. At the African Union Commission, we have a candidate and we thank Museveni for supporting him."
The Busia Border Marathon has been an annual event within the border county but had been on a hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, returning in April 2023.
According to the event's coordinator, the race provides several other health benefits including; blood donation, cancer screening, diabetes, and pressure testing among others.
“This marathon will give a platform for the residents of Busia to come out in large numbers and participate in the race,” the event's coordinator Sarah Martha told the press in 2023.
“We will be having awards for winners of various categories for both men and women in 10 and 15-kilometer races."
The race this year comes barely a week after Kenya and Uganda reached an agreement allowing the neighbouring country to continue importing its oil through the Port of Mombasa.
Uganda had previously sought to strike oil importation deals with other neighbouring countries after decrying expensive prices and unfair trade practices by oil cartels operating in Kenya.
The first shipment is expected to take place in May this year.
