As the world watches the final moments of the Olympic Games, another remarkable challenge is set to begin at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
The Kilimanjaro BP Reader Challenge, led by Enda O’Coineen, Publisher of the Business Post, and Pat Falvey, one of Ireland’s most accomplished mountaineers, aims to scale Africa’s highest mountain while raising vital funds for the Shalom Centre for Peace and Reconciliation.
This challenge is not just a physical ascent, but a journey through diverse climates, starting from hot tropical conditions and navigating through various weather zones—ultimately reaching the icy glaciers and snowfields at the summit.
At 19,341 feet, Kilimanjaro towers over Ireland’s tallest peak, Carrauntoohil, which stands at 3,407 feet and served as a training ground for this expedition.
Kilimanjaro, with its three volcanic cones, is the highest free-standing mountain in the world and the fourth most prominent summit on Earth.
This climb serves as a powerful metaphor for life, pushing boundaries, testing limits, and demanding resilience in the face of adversity.
The expedition, expected to take six days, is a testament to human determination and endurance.
The core objective of this climb is to support the Shalom Centre for Peace and Reconciliation, founded in 2009 by Irish missionary Fr. Pat Devine.
This multi-denominational organisation is dedicated to addressing the root causes of violence and poverty in the tribal lands of eastern Africa.
Fr. Devine explains the mission:
“We focus on the root causes of violence and poverty in the tribal lands of eastern Africa.
“Our challenge is to address the persistent, widespread inter-ethnic violence and dislocation across northern Kenya.
“Through techniques pioneered by Shalom, we facilitate meetings between leaders of African tribes to build mutual respect and resolve conflicts that have persisted for centuries.
“Many are born into conflict, instinctively clashing with neighbouring tribes without ever asking why.”
Pat Falvey, who has completed the Seven Summits twice, including summiting Mount Everest from both its north and south sides, is a key figure in this challenge.
His experience and expertise, combined with O’Coineen’s leadership, will guide the group through the demanding climb.
“Determination is vital to reaching the top,” says Enda O’Coineen.
“At times, you might feel awfully sick and exhausted. At that lowest point, it is important that you remain determined to get to the top—one step at a time!”
For those wishing to support the cause, please visit the GoFundMe page: BP Kilimanjaro Reader Challenge.