NAIROBI, April 25- An inaugural road race which aims at enhancing the image of the Nairobi city and promoting the metropolis as the hub of Africa will take place on March 18.

The Nairobi Diamond 10km Run has been organized by the Athletics Kenya Nairobi County branch to showcase the city as a safe destination despite the upsurge in acts of terror in the recent past.

“The race will be one of the most lucrative races and biggest in the region considering the prize money and consolation prizes on offer,” Barnabas Korir, Nairobi County Athletics Kenya chairman said during the launch Thursday.

“We expect top athletes to compete in the event, and so far several elite athletes have confirmed participation,” Korir said.

Organizers are offering a total pool of 120,000 dollars for the winners.

Korir said Leonard Komon, world 10km record holder and Kenneth Kemboi, former African Champion in the distance are among athletes who have confirmed participation.

Korir said the race, themed “Our country, our, our city, our pride”, will show the unity and aspirations of the Kenyan people general and residents of Nairobi in particular.

“As Kenya embarks on an expedition to lobby for the World Youth Athletics Championships in 2017, we want to show the world as a safe and secure place. Those who participate in events of this magnitude for health reasons are also invited,” Korir, a former Kenyan international athlete said.

Rose Kimonye, Brand Kenya CEO said Kenyans should be encouraged to run for good causes.

“The outcome will be growth of sports tourism and identification of young talent. From where I sit, I can tell you about the immense publicity Kenya received from the participation of the First Lady at the London Marathon last week,” Kimonye said.

Korir said the race will take every precaution to ensure the safety of participants adding that the event will be observed under tight security.