Ultramarathons are often viewed as the pinnacle of endurance running, pushing athletes to their physical and mental limits. But for some, these grueling races serve a greater purpose beyond personal achievement. One such inspiring figure is Italian ultramarathon runner Nicola Ciani, who has dedicated his racing endeavors to support vital humanitarian initiatives in Africa. By combining his passion for running with philanthropy, Ciani exemplifies how sport can drive meaningful change.

A Race with a Purpose

Since his entry into the world of ultramarathon racing in 2004, Ciani has embarked on numerous daunting races, including the infamous Marathon des Sables—a grueling 250-kilometer trek across the Sahara Desert. However, it was in 2012 that he found a deeper motivation: using the platform of ultramarathons to raise funds for critical development projects in Africa. Through his partnership with Charity In The World, an Italian nonprofit founded by fellow ultramarathon runner Raffaele Bratolle, Ciani has focused on transformative initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty and improving living conditions for communities in need.

Access to Clean Water in Togo

One of Ciani's most notable campaigns is the 'No Water, No Life' initiative, which addresses the severe lack of access to clean drinking water in Togo. According to the United Nations, only 21% of the population had access to safely managed drinking water services as of 2024. This dire situation exacerbates health risks, contributing to the prevalence of waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever.


In 2019, Ciani leveraged his participation in the Marathon des Sables to generate funds for two drinking wells in rural communities in Togo, specifically in Afagnan and Zooti. The inauguration of these wells marked a turning point for local residents. Ciani fondly recalls the moment he witnessed the joy of the community during one of the well inaugurations: “I was surrounded by hundreds of kids and the priest said: ‘You cannot even imagine what you did for the community with this drinking well.’” The impact of this project has not only improved access to drinking water but also enhanced hygiene standards and reduced the distances that residents need to travel to collect water.

Empowering Communities in Ethiopia

Following the success of his water campaign, Ciani turned his focus to Ethiopia, specifically the Shebo community near Gambella. Here, traditional methods of grain grinding can be incredibly labor-intensive. To alleviate this burden, Ciani launched 'The Grain for Life' project, which aims to provide local families with a grain mill, significantly reducing the time and effort required for food preparation.


By participating in various ultramarathons around the world, Ciani continues to raise funds for both the grain mill and local kindergartens, ensuring that children have access to education as well as nutrition. This dual focus on food security and education encapsulates the essence of sustainable development, fostering long-term growth within the community.

Lessons for Runners

As marathon and ultramarathon runners, we often find ourselves caught up in personal goals—whether it's achieving a new personal best or simply finishing a challenging race. However, Ciani’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the potential impact we can have beyond our individual pursuits. Here are some practical takeaways for runners inspired by Ciani's humanitarian efforts:

  • Run with Purpose: Consider integrating charitable goals into your racing schedule. Whether it’s fundraising for a local organization or supporting global initiatives, your race can serve a higher purpose.
  • Choose Your Races Wisely: Seek out races that align with your values. Many events support local charities or causes—consider participating in those that resonate with you.
  • Engage with Your Community: Use your running platform to raise awareness about issues that matter to you and inspire others to get involved.
  • Set Challenges: Push your limits while raising funds. Consider taking on an ultramarathon or other endurance events that can capture the interest of your supporters.

Nicola Ciani’s journey reminds us that running can be more than just a sport; it can be a catalyst for change. As you lace up your shoes for your next race, think about how you can contribute to a cause you care about. Whether it's through physical challenge or community involvement, every step you take can make a difference.

Ready to make an impact while indulging your passion for running? Explore our extensive list of international races that not only challenge your limits but also support meaningful initiatives around the globe. Join a race, run with purpose, and let your feet pave the way for positive change!