Rwenzori Marathon achieves global recognition with World Athletics Label Status
Being officially endorsed by the global athletics governing body means that the marathon meets the highest standards for quality, safety, and elite competition, going into its fifth edition this year.
The Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa (right) addresses the audience flanked by Tusker Lite's Ndungu, Minister Martin Mugarra Bahinduka (2nd left) and Equator Hikes' Amos Wekesa during the launch of the 5th Edition Rwenzori Marathon at Sheraton Gardens. Photo by Michael Nsubuga
The Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon is now a fully recognised global event. It is listed on the World Athletics activity calendar and has achieved Label Marathon status.
Being officially endorsed by the global athletics governing body means that the marathon meets the highest standards for quality, safety, and elite competition, going into its fifth edition this year.
As the third race in the region and seventh on the continent to earn Label Marathon status, this event now enables participants to qualify for the Comrades and the Two Oceans Marathon in South Africa and access additional benefits.
The NCS Chairman Ambrose Tashobya (left), Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Minister of State for Sports, Peter Ogwang (5th left) and Equator Hikes' Amos Wekesa (2nd right) and other stakeholders during the launch of the 5th Edition Rwenzori Marathon at Sheraton Gardens. Photo by Michael Nsubuga
The fifth edition was officially launched on Tuesday at the Sheraton Hotel Tourism Information Center gardens by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, who was in the company of Peter Ogwang, the Minister of State for Sports; Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities; the state minister for ICT, Godfrey Kabyanga; ambassadors Moses Kizige (Moscow) and Elizabeth Paula Napeyok (Rome); NCS Chairman Ambrose Tashobya; Catherine Ndungu, the Marketing & Innovations Director at Uganda Breweries Limited; and the other sponsors’ representatives from Standard Chartered Bank, Great Lakes Safaris, Britam, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, UNOC, UCC, and KIA Motors.
Tayebwa labelled the marathon as a very great initiative with the potential of becoming one of the top events on the continent, capable of attracting elite athletes and showcasing Uganda’s natural beauty to the world.
The NCS Chairman Ambrose Tashobya (3rd left), Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Minister of State for Sports, Peter Ogwang (5th left) and Equator Hikes' Amos Wekesa (2nd right) and other stakeholders during the launch of the 5th Edition Rwenzori Marathon at Sheraton Gardens, Feb 24, 2026. Photo by Michael Nsubuga
“People-led initiatives like this are always a powerful launchpad for development. They not only promote tourism and attract international attention, but they also empower local communities, inspire young athletes, and showcase the country’s talent and culture on a global stage,” Tayebwa stated. Ogwang reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting sports development and announced a ministry pledge of $1m (3.5b) towards the event’s prize kitty. “There have been great strides in sports development, and the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon’s inclusion on the World Athletics calendar, as well as its attainment of Label Marathon status, is a strong endorsement of Uganda’s growing capacity to host world-class events. The government remains committed to supporting initiatives like this that raise our flag high,” he said.
Amos Wekesa, CEO of Equator Hikes and lead organiser of the event, stated that the marathon has steadily grown by consistently drawing inspiration from successful road races around the world, and that strategy is clearly paying off.
“We are now on the same level as major international marathons like New York, and being part of the global calendar helps attract elite runners and sports enthusiasts from across the world.,” Wekesa said, adding that this year they expect around 20,000 runners from across the globe. Ndungu said Tusker Lite proudly leads the way in inspiring energetic, balanced, and lively living. She noted that the marathon perfectly reflects the brand’s spirit, bringing together people, wellness, music, and culture for an unforgettable celebration.
“We’re proud of the impact the marathon has created. We have boosted the economy of Kasese and the surrounding areas, elevated tourism in the Rwenzori region, championed healthy living, supported talent development, and strengthened environmental conservation efforts.”
Bahinduka, the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, highlighted the marathon’s integral role in boosting tourism and showcasing Uganda’s scenic destinations. Kabyanga, a native of Kasese who knows the area like the back of his hand, assured participants of full security during the marathon week and beyond. “Additionally, we are working to ensure that accommodation capacity is expanded to reach up to 10,000 rooms. There are hotels coming up right now. At the same time, we are developing more activities and experiences to support the expected growth in visitor numbers,” he emphasized.
The Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon is supported by Standard Chartered Bank, Great Lakes Safaris, Britam, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, UNOC, UCC, and KIA Motors.