More than 16,000 women took to the streets of the Ethiopian capital on Sunday for the annual “Women First” 5KM Run, in a vibrant display of unity, inclusion, and empowerment.

The event, organized by Great Ethiopian Run, brought together participants from all walks of life—from elite athletes to first-time runners—highlighting the growing role of sport in advancing women’s participation in public life across Africa.

Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, who attended the early morning race, underscored the importance of women’s leadership, stating that women “live with wisdom, work with confidence, and run with conviction,” and calling for unity to drive national prosperity.

The 5-kilometer race was held along the Bole–Atlas–Urael corridor, a key route transformed under the city’s corridor development initiative. Officials say the upgraded infrastructure reflects Addis Ababa’s ongoing urban transformation and its growing capacity to host large-scale national and international events.

The run also attracted UN officials, diplomats, and prominent Ethiopian women, who used the platform to promote civic engagement, including voter registration, emphasizing the link between women’s participation and stronger democratic systems.

As Africa’s diplomatic capital, Addis Ababa continues to position itself as a premier destination for major gatherings. Events like the “Women First” run not only showcase the city’s organizational capacity but also reflect a broader continental shift toward inclusion, youth engagement, and women-led development.

Analysts say the scale and visibility of the event signal a growing trend across African cities, where sport is increasingly being used as a tool for social change, public health awareness, and community mobilization.