Justin Timberlake, rapper Lupe Fiasco and singer Kenna are teaming up to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa, in an effort to raise awareness for the worldwide water crisis. “My dad almost died as a child from waterborne diseases in Ethiopia, and he had talked to me about digging a well there, and I thought, ‘I have too many friends who would be concerned with the subject of clean water. Maybe I can help out,’ ” Kenna told Elle magazine in a recent interview. When asked about his motivation to hike up the 19,000-foot peak, Lupe Fiasco joked, “Part of the motivation is beating Kenna to the top. Sabotaging his tent, taking the lining out of his coat, lacing it with ants or something like that.” Kenna said there’s a bit of friendly competition with Timberlake when it comes to training for the mission. “I refuse to work out with him, because he’s way fitter than I am,” Kenna told Elle. “I’m training in secret.”
Timberlake is training like a pro, according to GQ. “I’ve been training four times a week to get my VO2 [oxygen consumption] levels up to expand my lungs,” he told the magazine. “We’ll climb for a week straight, carrying 30 pounds on our backs. It’s going to be intense, but it’s going to be so rewarding. Plus, we’re going to be ready for it.” The mission will bring the three artists to the highest point in Africa, which boasts breathtaking views and three inactive volcanic cones. Though the climb is popular among tourists, the altitude and low temperature make this a difficult and dangerous trek. Those who make the climb typically suffer from shortness of breath, headaches and discomfort due to the limited amount of breathable oxygen. The three are set to embark on their journey this fall.