Turkana’s Desert Duathlon Becomes East Africa’s Toughest Endurance Race

The inaugural Turkana Desert Duathlon (5km run + 25km mountain bike + 5km run) drew 320 competitors to Lokichar on August 17, 2025—with temperatures peaking at 42°C. Kenyan ultra-runner David Lekuta won in 2:48:11, navigating rocky terrain and sand dunes with GPS watches and solar hydration packs. Organized by the county and Adventure Kenya, the race promotes sustainable tourism in ASAL regions. All participants planted acacia seedlings post-race, contributing to the *Turkana Green Belt*. This isn’t suffering—it’s communion with the land, said Lekuta. The event generated KSh 42 million for local guides and homestays. Plans for a women’s-only edition in 2026 are confirmed.