The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, in partnership with Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and Uganda Airlines, has announced a UGX 800 million contribution towards the fourth edition of the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon, set to take place on August 23 in Kasese District.
The announcement was made during the official flag-off ceremony held at Fairway Hotel in Kampala. The 2025 edition of the marathon will feature 42km, 21km, and 5km races, catering to elite athletes, amateur runners, and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Speaking at the event, Doreen Katusiime, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, applauded the joint effort behind the marathon and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting Uganda’s regional tourism assets.
“This marathon is more than a race. It is part of a larger tourism vision,” Katusiime said. “Today’s travellers seek experience, wellness, culture, nature, and community. The Rwenzori Marathon is a flagship tourism experience – sustainable, locally rooted, and globally appealing.”
Now in its fourth year, the marathon has grown into one of Uganda’s signature sports tourism events, drawing both local and international participants. Organizers project runners from over 32 countries across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa, with more than 50 countries targeted for future editions.
Amos Wekesa, a leading tourism entrepreneur and one of the visionaries behind the marathon, emphasized the significant economic impact the event has had on the region.
“Last year alone, over UGX 15 billion was spent in Kasese and surrounding areas as a result of the marathon. Accommodation facilities are nearly fully booked this year, and participation from neighboring Kenya continues to rise,” he said. “Our goal is to attract 2,000 to 3,000 Kenyan runners by 2026, transforming the Rwenzori region into a premier tourism and wellness destination.”
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.”
In a bid to encourage exploration beyond the race, the government and tourism partners are offering discounted entry fees to Uganda’s national parks, special airfare rates through Uganda Airlines, and a familiarization tour for influencers and content creators. These initiatives are designed to showcase the broader Rwenzori region, known for its national parks, crater lakes, cultural heritage sites, and warm, welcoming communities.
As momentum builds, organizers expect a surge in international attention, with increased media coverage and growing interest from wellness travellers seeking unique experiences rooted in nature and culture.
The 2025 Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon promises to be a celebration not just of athleticism, but of Uganda’s rich tourism potential – boldly positioning the Rwenzori region as a must-visit destination in the Pearl of Africa.
