Concerned about advance preventive mental health and lifestyle well-being, Wakathon 2026 is set to mobilise Lagos residents for a city-wide health walk aimed at promoting healthier living through simple, everyday movement.
Waka Community International Foundation, founder and health advocate, Lorenz Mba described Wakathon as a people-centred response to the rising burden of lifestyle-related illnesses, noting that regular physical activity remains one of the most accessible solutions to modern health challenges.
Wakathon is more than a fitness event. It is a growing public health movement built on a simple but transformative philosophy: movement is medicine. Through intentional walking, the initiative promotes preventive healthcare, mental well-being, and social connection in Africa’s most populous city.
This year’s edition, held in honour of Dr Ade Alakija, brings together Q-life, HEI, and Waka Community International Foundation in what organisers describe as a “people-first health intervention.” Unlike competitive races or marathons, Wakathon removes pressure and performance, creating an inclusive environment for seniors, families, professionals, and first-time walkers.
Beyond the walk itself, participants will engage in practical health education sessions focused on hydration, nutrition, sleep, mental wellness, and healthy ageing. The organisers have also announced a free health screening for participants as part of the programme.
The event will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2026, by 7:00am at the Catholic Church of Divine Mercy, Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase One, with organisers confirming that participants will also benefit from free health screening as part of the programme.
Wakathon’s impact is further strengthened by the global reach of its organisers. Founded in 2021 by Lorenz Mba, Waka Community International Foundation has grown into an international wellness movement with members in over 48 countries, united around five core pillars: walking, nutrition, hydration, sleep, and mental well-being.
In 2025, the Foundation made history as the first Nigerian organisation to independently advertise on the iconic Times Square billboard in New York, marking a major milestone in its global expansion and reinforcing its mission to place African-led health solutions on the world stage.
At the heart of this vision remains Wakathon – now connecting communities across continents under the rallying call #WakaMakesSense. From Lagos streets to global city squares, the message is clear: preventive health does not have to be complicated.
