Klaas Mokgomole: A Beacon of Solidarity at the Jerusalem Marathon

On 4th April 2025, against the storied backdrop of ancient hills and modern resolve, Klaas Mokgomole crossed the finish line of the Jerusalem Marathon in an extraordinary 3 hours, 13 minutes, and 45 seconds. But for Mokgomole, a South African advocate for unity and dialogue, the 42.42km race was about far more than personal triumph. It was a heartfelt tribute to “Cancer Warriors” worldwide, a cause he championed with the support of DL Link. This run marked another chapter in his journey as an unwavering ally to the Jewish community, a role he has embodied through action, empathy, and the simple power of putting one foot in front of the other.

Mokgomole’s running story began in 2018, initially as a personal challenge. By 2019, he had conquered the gruelling Comrades Marathon, yet his early races lacked a broader mission. That changed after the COVID-19 pandemic. His evolution from athlete to advocate has since seen him lace up for causes close to his heart, and to the hearts of others. In 2023, he ran the Comrades Marathon waving an Israeli flag, a bold gesture of solidarity amid rising global tensions. A year later, he returned to the same race demanding the release of hostages held in Gaza, amplifying voices often drowned out by politics.

Mokgomole’s activism extends far beyond the track. As founder of Africans for Peace, he fosters open dialogue, education, and debate among students, working closely with the South African Zionist Federation (SAZF) and South African Union of Jewish Students (SAUJS). His initiatives aim to dismantle prejudice and build understanding, particularly between African and Jewish communities. “Ignorance breeds division,” he says. “But when we listen, we find common ground.”

This ethos has made him a respected figure in spaces where conflict might otherwise dominate. Whether organising campus workshops or leading tough conversations, Mokgomole’s approach is rooted in compassion, a quality that mirrors his marathon philosophy. Just as running requires endurance, peace requires patience, both are marathons, not sprints.

Dedicating this year’s Jerusalem Marathon to cancer fighters felt deeply personal for Mokgomole. Partnering with DL Link and Jeff Shankman, he transformed his run into a global rallying cry, honouring individuals battling the disease and the scientists striving for cures. Every step was for those facing their hardest race. His time of 3:13:45, symbolised more than athletic prowess. It embodied the resilience and determination

Klaas plans to keep running as a force for connection. Whether advocating for hostages, cancer patients, or intercommunity harmony, he embodies the belief that sport can transcend boundaries.

For the Jewish community and beyond, Klaas Mokgomole is more than a runner. He is an ally who chooses empathy over apathy, dialogue over division, and hope over despair. And with every kilometre he conquers, he proves that the road to peace is one we can all run together.

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To learn more about Klaas Mokgomole’s work or support his initiatives, visit www.africansforpeace.com.