Jean-Claude to Run 90km Ultra-marathon to Build Hope for Children with Autism
Wale Igbintade
Jean-Claude Havyarimana, a passionate autism advocate and friend of The Zeebah Foundation, will take on one of the world’s toughest ultra-marathons, the 2025 Comrades Marathon on Sunday, June 8, 2025, in Durban, South Africa.
Known as the “Ultimate Human Race,” the legendary 90-kilometre Comrades Marathon will mark Jean-Claude’s 47th marathon.
This time, however, he is running for a higher purpose: raising funds to build Nigeria’s first dedicated Autism Therapy and Resource Centre.
Since 1921, the Comrades Marathon has tested the limits of human endurance, drawing runners from around the globe to tackle the grueling route between Durban and Pietermaritzburg.
In this year’s “down run,” Jean-Claude will join over 20,000 runners in a celebrated South African tradition that embodies the spirit of Ubuntu—humanity, compassion, and community.
But for Jean-Claude, it’s about more than personal achievement. He is running to support The Zeebah Foundation’s ambitious vision: establishing Nigeria’s first purpose-built Autism Therapy and Resource Centre in Abuja.
This groundbreaking facility aims to transform autism care in Nigeria and across West Africa, offering hope to thousands of families who currently have limited access to specialized services.
The proposed state-of-the-art centre will feature residential accommodation for over 50 children, prioritizing families facing financial hardship or traveling from outside Abuja.
“Specialised therapy and sensory rooms designed for autism intervention.
“A minimum 5,000 square metre facility, with space for future expansion and a comprehensive resources for families, caregivers, and the broader autism community.
In a statement, the Zeebah Foundation’s management said: “As Jean-Claude faces the tough hills and valleys of the Comrades route, he carries the hopes and dreams of children with autism and their families. Every kilometre he runs brings us closer to raising the funds needed to make this vital centre a reality.”
The Zeebah Foundation has called on individuals, corporations, and organisations to support this life-changing initiative.
