24 April 2025 – London, UK | Launching today during World Immunisation Week, a new campaign calls on the UK public to get moving – literally – in the fight to end one of the world’s oldest and most preventable diseases. Running through to European Public Health Week, the initiative aims to turn collective action into global impact – with every step, stride, stroke, or spin logged in support of a polio-free future.
‘Rise Together’, launched by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), is a nationwide movement challenge on Strava that invites everyone to move with purpose – walk, run, cycle, swim, roll – and collectively log 40 million minutes of activity between 24 April and 24 May. The target is symbolic: 20 million minutes for the people walking today thanks to the polio vaccine, and 20 million more for the health workers and volunteers still fighting to eradicate the disease for good.
“Polio has been with us from our ancient past, and it has been robbing far too many children of healthy futures,” said Dr Jamal Ahmed, Director of Polio Eradication at the World Health Organization. “With the help of the UK and other donors, millions are walking and alive today. The world has come too far to step backward and let polio return. Eradication is within reach. Let’s get the job done together.”
Since 1988, polio cases have dropped by more than 99%. But the final stretch is the hardest and the most fragile. In 2024, poliovirus was detected in wastewater in London and cities in four other European countries, a sobering reminder that the virus can return even in regions long polio-free.
The UK has historically been one of the loudest supporters of a world without polio for every child. Public support is needed now more than ever, and this challenge calls on the UK community to step up and show it still cares – both to the world and to UK leaders.
“The UK has led this fight for decades. Now is not the time to walk away,” said Judith Diment, Rotary International’s senior diplomat. “By taking part in this challenge, people can send a clear signal to decision-makers: the health of all children around the world still matters, and we still care.”
The campaign is driven by an inspiring group of ambassadors, including Anne Wafula Strike, Paralympian and polio survivor; Deo Kato, endurance runner and activist; Adrienne Adhami, wellbeing expert and bestselling author; Haroon Mota, founder of Muslim Hikers and champion of inclusive fitness; and Sophie Grace Holmes, ultra-endurance athlete living with cystic fibrosis. These voices will lead the charge throughout the month, hosting community meet-ups and sharing their personal stories to inspire mass participation.
“I’ve lived through polio, and no child should be paralysed by a disease we know how to prevent,” said Anne Wafula Strike. “This challenge is about rising for those still at risk of polio – and all preventable diseases – and proving we won’t stop until every child is protected against polio.”
Joining the challenge is simple. Anyone can log their activity on Strava and contribute to the collective goal of 40 million active minutes – and invite others to do the same. Every minute counts. Whether it’s a daily walk, a weekend cycle, or a full marathon, each effort adds to the collective goal of 40 million minutes.
‘Rise Together’ is not just about visibility – it’s about impact. As the GPEI enters a critical phase of global funding, public participation will help demonstrate momentum, solidarity, and a clear call for continued investment. At a time when UK leadership in global health is more vital than ever, this campaign offers a simple, powerful way to stand up, speak out, and help end polio for good.
More information: https://makepoliohistory.org/rise-together-challenge/
Download the campaign toolkit here.
Global Polio Eradication Initiative
Communications Secretariat
Frances Hocking
fhocking@globalhealthstrategies.com
+44 07391169736 (Cell)
