Kampala, Uganda: The government has committed UGX 3.7 billion towards the 2026 Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon, reaffirming its commitment to using sport as a catalyst for tourism, local economic growth and destination marketing.
The funding was announced on Thursday during the launch of the fifth edition of the marathon, scheduled for August 22, 2026, in Kasese. Organisers are targeting a record 8,000 local and international runners, buoyed by the event’s newly acquired World Athletics Label Road Race status.
State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang said the government’s investment reflects growing confidence in sports tourism as a driver of economic development and the promotion of Brand Uganda.
“There is no way we can build the ‘Brand Uganda’ if we ourselves do not participate. We call upon Ugandans to maximize and seize these massive revenue-generating opportunities, and we challenge members of government to lace up their shoes and participate!”
The World Athletics label elevates the Mt. Rwenzori Marathon into the ranks of internationally certified road races, a milestone expected to attract more elite athletes, recreational runners and tourists to western Uganda.
Sports Tourism at the Heart of Uganda’s Strategy
Marathon Chairman Amos Wekesa said the event has evolved into a national tourism product that extends far beyond athletics. “We want to inspire Ugandans to love our country more. This event is a powerful vehicle for sports tourism.”
He revealed that this year’s edition will feature an expanded exhibition village designed to provide business opportunities for local entrepreneurs while giving visitors a richer cultural experience.
The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) also described the marathon as one of the country’s flagship sports tourism products.
Vice Chairperson Ronald Kawamara said the event is increasingly attracting international participants whose spending benefits communities around Kasese.
“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.”
He added that the race route, which passes through the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains and areas bordering Queen Elizabeth National Park, gives visitors an opportunity to experience Uganda’s diverse tourism 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.”
Uganda Declares Readiness to Host Visitors
The Ministry of Health assured participants that Uganda is safe for international travel following significant progress in containing the Ebola outbreak.
Senior Public Relations Officer Emmanuel Ainebyona announced that the country’s final Ebola patient had been discharged from care. “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.”
He added: “I want to state categorically that Uganda is safe for all marathon participants. Our country is open for visitors, safe, and ready to host you all.”
Beyond tourism, organisers said the marathon will serve as a learning platform for Uganda’s future international sporting events.
Working alongside the UN Pulse Lab at Makerere University, organisers will collect data on participant movement, logistics and event management to strengthen preparations for future competitions, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Janet Nabakoza described the marathon as a model for future event planning. “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 added: “Through this marathon, we are literally selling the beauty and potential of Uganda to the world.”
Meanwhile, National Council of Sports General Secretary Dr Bernard Patrick Ogwel pledged continued institutional support, saying he would actively promote the marathon internationally.
With increased government funding, global recognition through World Athletics certification and growing collaboration between government and the private sector, organisers believe the 2026 Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon will further strengthen Uganda’s ambitions of becoming one of Africa’s leading sports tourism destinations.
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