Athletics

South Africa’s Keith Boyd completes Cape to Cairo quest, sets world record

Keith Boyd aka Rainbow Runner in Marsabit Kenya. Photo courtesy of his X

By Rama Mohammed | Tuesday, May 28, 2024

Boyd conquered the 11,000-kilometer run, setting world record, specifically to raise awareness for youth voter participation in South Africa.

South Africa’s Keith Boyd, known as the "Rainbow Runner," successfully completed his monumental Cape to Cairo run, setting a new world record. Boyd’s journey, which aimed to inspire young South Africans to vote and be active citizens, concluded in a triumphant finish.

Boyd began his 11,000-kilometer journey in July 2023 from Cape Town, traversing several countries, including Kenya, where he received a special message of encouragement from legendary Kenyan marathoner Eliud Kipchoge. This support bolstered Boyd’s resolve during the arduous trek.

Despite numerous hurdles, including safety concerns that threatened to halt his progress just 500 kilometers short of his goal, Boyd remained undeterred. He faced significant dangers, such as being held at gunpoint and escaping a kidnapping attempt by rebel groups in Northern Ethiopia. His determination to complete the run and raise awareness for youth voter participation in South Africa drove him forward.

Initially, Boyd’s Cape to Cairo quest was paused due to these severe safety risks. He petitioned the Ethiopian government for assistance, garnering support from over a thousand supporters. However, his calls for help went unanswered by the Ethiopian National government.

Undeterred, Boyd relied on the bravery and support of a team of Ethiopian civilians and local officials to safely navigate the final stretch. Their collaboration, coupled with Boyd’s unwavering spirit, enabled him to complete the journey in 301 days, 20 hours, and 58 minutes, setting a new world record for running the length of Africa.

The final 500 kilometers were fraught with danger, including ambushes and detentions. Yet, Boyd and his team persevered, driven by the mission to inspire apathetic voters to become engaged citizens. His extraordinary feat highlights the power of determination and the importance of active civic participation.

Boyd’s journey will be chronicled in his upcoming book "Running Africa." As he reflects on his nearly year-long odyssey, Boyd is celebrated by South Africans, receiving accolades akin to a national hero.

Boyd's run wasn't just about breaking records - it was about fostering change. “Far more importantly, it is about engaging with and educating young people about the importance of voting for their government leaders, and then holding them accountable to do what they promised to do,” Boyd told Monaco Life. “Only through responsible leadership can a country’s economy grow faster than its population, thereby reducing unemployment, poverty, and inequality.”

Ultimately, Boyd hoped to raise €2 million or more for Rainbow Leaders during the run.