The EU-JA 5K & 10K Run reached a new milestone on March 9, attracting over 4,200 registrants – the largest turnout in the event’s three-year history.

Held in partnership with the ministries of national security and education, under the theme ‘All Together Against Crime & Violence‘, the annual race continues to raise vital funds to support literacy programmes and early intervention initiatives in Jamaica’s communities most vulnerable to crime and violence.

This year’s staging also kicks off the European Union’s (EU) celebration of 50 years of partnership with Jamaica, underscoring its long-standing commitment to Jamaican development.

The race saw strong support from notable figures across Jamaica, including Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness, who lauded the European Union for its ongoing contributions to the country’s growth and progress, describing it as one of Jamaica’s most important development partners. 

“The European Union is one of our most important and reliable development partners. The EU has been very good to Jamaica and Jamaicans recognise this. This is why you have over 4000 persons here today. It is a demonstration of appreciation for the work that the European Union has done in Jamaica.”

EU Ambassador Dr Erja Askola expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support and reiterated the union’s commitment to fostering positive change through education and social development.

“This year’s record-breaking turnout is a testament to the power of unity and the shared commitment of Jamaicans to stand against crime and violence. The EU-JA 5K & 10K Run is more than just a race; it is a movement that reinforces the importance of education and early intervention in creating safer communities. By investing in literacy and providing children with the right tools to succeed, we are addressing the root causes of crime and working towards a more secure future for all. We are deeply grateful to our partners, including the Government of Jamaica, our sponsors, volunteers, and all the participants who came out to support this cause. It is through collective effort just like this that we can make a lasting impact, and we are proud to continue this work alongside our Jamaican counterparts,” she said.

Also in attendance, championing the cause, was the run’s very own race patron, Olympian Shanieka Ricketts. A decorated triple jumper, Ricketts is a strong advocate for the power of literacy in addressing crime and violence, and she commended the EU for its ongoing commitment to these efforts. 

 Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn, state minister in the Ministry of National Security, highlighted the significance of collaborative partnerships in creating safer communities.

“Sustainable crime prevention efforts require a multi-faceted approach, with partnerships playing a pivotal role in empowering vulnerable communities and addressing the underlying factors that contribute to crime and violence. The Ministry of National Security acknowledges the critical role that social intervention initiatives like these play in crime prevention. We remain committed to supporting initiatives that address the root causes of crime, and create safer communities. Events such as the EU’s 5K & 10K Run are significant in bringing people together, raising awareness, and promoting positive change. We are pleased to have been a part of this initiative and we are even more pleased at the event’s turnout – we are proud to see Jamaica gathering for this cause and running for change,” charged the minister. 

Proceeds from this year’s race will directly support the Creative Language-Based Learning (CLBL) Foundation, equipping educators with tools to improve literacy outcomes for students in underserved communities. This intervention forms part of the Inter-Ministerial School Support Strategy, aimed at tackling the root causes of crime through education and early intervention.

Education Minister Dr Dana Morris Dixon also underscored the significance of literacy as a pillar of national development and crime reduction. 

“Education is fundamental in breaking cycles of poverty and crime. It equips our people with the knowledge and skills to create a brighter future for themselves and Jamaica. We commend the European Union for its commitment to helping to strengthen Jamaica’s education system and investing in the success of our youth. This initiative is sure to create lasting benefits, empowering young people, improving educational outcomes in vulnerable communities, and ultimately fostering a more secure and prosperous Jamaica,” she said. 

The EU’s continued investment in Jamaica’s Citizen Security Plan highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing crime prevention, supporting survivors of gender-based violence, and enhancing educational outcomes.

As the EU marks 50 years of partnership with Jamaica, the organisation remains committed to fostering a more inclusive, equitable, and secure society.

A formal handover of the funds raised will take place in the coming months and through CLBL will directly benefit – Cockburn Gardens Primary, Calabar Primary, Whitfield Primary, Greenwich All-Age School, and Tavares Gardens Primary School.

This year’s EU 5K & 10K Run was executed by Running Events JA, and the unwavering support of volunteers played a pivotal role in the event’s success.