Climbing for change: Africa’s highest peak
February 4, 2026
Photo of Kilimanjaro by Crispin Jones at Unsplash
Rebecca Pattni explores challenge, heritage and hope on her path up Mount Kilimanjaro
Next summer, I am taking on the challenge of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak and the world’s highest freestanding mountain at 5,895 metres.
Despite the fact that this seems impossible, extremely challenging, I am going to push myself to climb the mountain for a good cause that transforms lives by improving access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene.
Over the course of this year, I am attempting to raise £2,999 for Dig Deep (Africa), the charity organisation I am hiking Kilimanjaro through. 50% of this fundraising target goes to transforming access to water, sanitation, and hygiene. The other 50% goes towards my expedition costs, which do not include flights, as I am paying for this by myself.
Throughout last year, I’ve been working hard to reach my target. I held a bake sale at Manchester’s Student Union, to raise money for this great cause.
Two out of three people in Bomet County, Kenya, don’t have access to clean drinking water
This experience will be incredible, the most rewarding part of this challenge is the fundraising. Knowing that I will be doing something positive for others is indescribably rewarding. I wanted to use this challenge not only to push myself but also to contribute to something that genuinely makes a difference.
Dig Deep works in Bomet County, Kenya, home to one million people, one of the least resourced areas in the country. Two out of three people there do not have access to clean drinking water.
Taking part in this challenge and raising money will help children and their families in Kenya realise their right to clean water, safe toilets, and good hygiene. The funds raised will support those in need by saving lives, improving education, empowering women and girls, and strengthening livelihoods.
Being part of this challenge has made me more aware of the privileges that we often take for granted. The expedition ensures fair and ethical treatment of the porters and guides on the mountain in line with the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project guidelines, which is very important to me. I want this experience to be positive and respectful for everyone involved.
Beyond the summit, reconnecting with my roots and giving back
I chose to take on this challenge in part because I have always wanted to visit Kenya, where my family has deep roots. I hope to experience the mountain’s beauty and connect with a part of myself I might not otherwise discover. This makes the journey deeply personal. It’s not just about reaching the summit, but about exploring where I come from and giving something meaningful back.
The summit of Mount Kilimanjaro offers a sensational view. I deeply value the opportunity to travel, so I jumped at the chance to experience one of the most beautiful places in the world. I’m also excited about the experiences and friendships I hope to create along the way. I enjoy connecting with new people and I have no doubt this journey will lead to friendships and memories that last a lifetime.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro will be physically and mentally demanding, but I feel ready to take it on. I love hiking and often visit the Peak District with friends, so I’m really looking forward to this challenge.
If you feel inspired to take on a challenge and make a difference, you can find out more here.
To see more about this challenge and support my fundraising, check out Dig Deep Kilimanjaro 2026. Thank you 💛
