Uganda Bets on Mt Rwenzori Marathon to Drive Sports Tourism and Global Profile

Uganda is intensifying efforts to position itself as a leading sports tourism destination in Africa, with organisers of the 2026 Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon targeting a record 8,000 local and international participants following the event’s elevation to a World Athletics Label Road Race.

The fifth edition of the marathon, scheduled for August 22 in Kasese district, was launched in Kampala on Thursday amid renewed optimism that the annual race will boost tourism, stimulate local businesses and strengthen Uganda’s profile as a host of international sporting events.

The milestone comes as Uganda prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with organisers describing the marathon as a key platform for showcasing the country’s tourism potential and testing systems required for future mega-events.

Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) Vice Chairperson Ronald Kawamara said the marathon has evolved into more than a sporting competition, becoming an important driver of tourism and local economic growth.

“The Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon is designed to compete on a global stage. We are targeting international sports athletes who are big spenders, and this influx is amazing for our local economy in Kasese,” Kawamara said.

He noted that the marathon route, which traverses the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains and areas bordering Queen Elizabeth National Park, offers participants a unique opportunity to experience Uganda’s natural attractions.

“By integrating routes that touch both the Rwenzori foothills and Queen Elizabeth National Park, we are showcasing the very best of Uganda’s biodiversity,” he added.

Organisers are also using the marathon to strengthen Uganda’s preparedness for hosting major international events. Through a partnership with the UN Pulse Lab at Makerere University, data generated from this year’s race will be used to improve planning, logistics and crowd management for future sporting competitions.

Janet Nabakoza said the initiative would provide valuable lessons ahead of AFCON 2027.

“We need to look at this marathon as a proof of concept. The data and logistics systems we build here will help us prepare for massive upcoming national events, such as the AFCON tournament,” she said.

She added that the marathon was equally an opportunity to market Uganda internationally.

“Through this marathon, we are literally selling the beauty and potential of Uganda to the world.”

The launch also received a boost from the Ministry of Health after the country discharged its last Ebola patient, a development expected to strengthen confidence among international visitors.

Senior Public Relations Officer Emmanuel Ainebyona assured prospective participants that Uganda was safe to host the event.

“Today, Uganda has successfully discharged its very last Ebola patient from care. This marks a monumental milestone as we officially enter the countdown to being declared completely Ebola-free. Uganda is safe for all marathon participants. Our country is open for visitors, safe and ready to host you all,” he said.

Government reaffirmed its commitment to the event, with State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang announcing a Shs3.7 billion contribution towards the marathon.

Ogwang urged Ugandans to embrace sports tourism as an economic opportunity while encouraging government officials to actively participate in the event.

“There is no way we can build the Brand Uganda if we ourselves do not participate. We call upon Ugandans to maximise these revenue-generating opportunities and challenge members of government to lace up their shoes and participate.”

Marathon chairman Amos Wekesa said this year’s edition will feature an expanded exhibition village to provide local entrepreneurs with greater opportunities to showcase their products and services.

“We want to inspire Ugandans to love our country more. This event is a powerful vehicle for sports tourism,” Wekesa said.

The National Council of Sports also pledged continued support, with General Secretary Dr Bernard Patrick Ogwel committing to promote the marathon internationally as Uganda seeks to cement its reputation as a destination for world-class sporting events.

The World Athletics Label status is expected to increase international participation and enhance the race’s credibility, making the Mt Rwenzori Marathon one of the continent’s fastest-growing road races while reinforcing Uganda’s ambition to leverage sport as a driver of tourism, investment and economic development.

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