UGX 800 Million Committed as Government, Private Sector Rally Behind Uganda’s Fastest-Growing Sports Tourism Event
The highly anticipated Mt. Rwenzori Marathon is set to return for its fourth edition on August 23rd, with organizers announcing bold ambitions to host 6,000 runners, up from just 800 participants in 2022.
Speaking during a press conference held at Fairway hotel in Kampala, one of the organizers Amos Wekesa stated that with growing international attention and strong domestic support, the marathon has become one of Uganda’s premier sports tourism events.
Wekesa added that over the years, the marathon has attracted participants from 33countries last year and aiming for representation from 50 countries in 2025.
The 2025 race will feature the iconic 42km route starting at the Equator Monument in Kikorongo, Queen Elizabeth National Park offering runners a world-class experience through Uganda’s stunning landscapes and wildlife corridors. Additional 21km and 5km categories will cater to amateur runners and fitness enthusiasts.
“This marathon is more than a race, it’s an economic engine and a branding opportunity for Uganda,” said Amos Wekesa.
He added, “We’ve seen participation rise steadily, and we’re targeting 2,000 to 3,000 Kenyan runners alone by 2026. Last year, 10,000 international visitors came to Kasese, and 150,000 locals lined the route to cheer.”
Inspired by the success of global events like the Kilimanjaro Marathon, Wekesa said the long-term goal is to turn the Rwenzori Marathon into a magnet for health, adventure, and wellness tourism.
Big Government Boost & Endorsement
Doreen Katusiime, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting Uganda’s tourism through sports.
“The Rwenzori Marathon is not just a sporting event, It is a strategic tool for empowering communities, driving wellness travel, and branding Uganda as a premier adventure destination. This is tourism rooted in sustainability, culture, and experience.” Katusiime said.
She emphasized the government’s recognition of sports tourism as a high-growth segment of the global travel market, currently worth billions of dollars annually.
Together with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and Uganda Airlines, the Ministry of Tourism affirmed their commitment by boosting the marathon with a UGX 800M sponsorship.
UTB CEO Juliana Kagwa underlined the event’s alignment with Uganda’s Destination Marketing Strategy and its broader goals of decentralizing tourism.
“The Rwenzori Marathon speaks directly to our mandate promoting Uganda’s diverse tourism products beyond traditional circuits,” she said. “This is how we spread the economic benefits of tourism across the country.”
The Rwenzori Marathon offers a one-of-a-kind blend of sport and safari, with runners navigating terrain that includes sweeping views of the Rwenzori Mountains, crater lakes, and wildlife habitats. The 42km route, beginning at the Equator and passing through the Queen Elizabeth National Park gateway, delivers a breathtaking combination of physical challenge and natural wonder.
Comprehensive Support to Attract Global Attention
To ensure the success of this year’s event and strengthen Uganda’s global tourism appeal, a multi-agency approach has been adopted. Key interventions include:
- Discounted national park entry for marathon participants and visitors.
- Special airfare offers from Uganda Airlines.
- Travel facilitation and logistical support for international runners.
- A familiarization tour for influencers and content creators to promote Uganda’s tourism gems.
- Local awareness campaigns across Kasese and neighboring districts.
- Strong backing from Uganda Breweries, the event’s headline sponsor.
Already, over 526 runners from Kenya have registered, and more are expected as cross-border interest surges.
