The government of Uganda has fulfilled its Shs3.7 billion commitment to support the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon, strengthening efforts to position the event as a major sports tourism attraction ahead of its fifth edition scheduled for August 22, 2026, in Kasese District.
The government’s contribution was confirmed during a press briefing in Kampala on Thursday, where State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang presented a symbolic dummy cheque representing the pledged support over the next four years.
Minister Ogwang said the investment reflects government’s commitment to promoting sports tourism, supporting athletes and showcasing Uganda’s potential to the world.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Education and Sports, under the leadership of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, government is proud to fulfil its commitment to support the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon,” Ogwang said.
“This investment is about more than a race; it is about growing sports tourism, creating opportunities for our athletes, stimulating local businesses and showcasing Uganda to the world.”
The funding will support prize money for the marathon, aimed at attracting elite athletes and increasing participation in the internationally recognised race.
The launch also received a boost from the Ministry of Health, which confirmed that the marathon will proceed as scheduled despite recent public health concerns.
Ministry spokesperson Emmanuel Ainebyoona assured participants and visitors that Uganda’s health systems remain prepared, following the discharge of the country’s last Ebola patient.
“The Ministry of Health wishes to assure all Ugandans and our international visitors that the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon will take place as scheduled,” Ainebyoona said.
“With the successful discharge of the country’s last Ebola patient this morning, we have made significant progress in containing the outbreak. We encourage participants to come and enjoy the marathon while observing the standard health measures that keep everyone safe.”
The fifth edition of the marathon comes after the event attained World Athletics Label Road Race status, placing it among internationally certified road races on the African continent.
Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon Team Lead Amos Wekesa said continued government and stakeholder support demonstrates confidence in the marathon’s vision of promoting Uganda as a leading sports tourism destination.
“From the very beginning, our vision has been to create a marathon that showcases Uganda’s beauty while giving our athletes an internationally recognised platform to compete and qualify for some of the world’s biggest races,” Wekesa said.
He added that the support will help organisers continue improving the standards of the event.
Tusker Lite Brand Manager Sandra Againe said the brand remains committed to the partnership, describing the marathon as an opportunity to promote active lifestyles and showcase Uganda’s tourism potential.
“For five consecutive years, Tusker Lite has proudly partnered with the Rwenzori Marathon because it embodies our belief in living boldly, staying active and creating unforgettable experiences,” Againe said.
Uganda Tourism Board Vice Chairperson Ron Kawamara said the marathon has evolved into one of Uganda’s flagship tourism products by combining athletics with the country’s natural attractions.
“The Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon has transformed sports into a powerful tourism driver. It attracts visitors who stay longer, explore more destinations and contribute directly to local communities,” Kawamara said.
National Council of Sports General Secretary Dr. Bernard Patrick Ogwel commended the organisers for maintaining international standards and creating opportunities for Ugandan athletes.
“The Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon has become a benchmark for road racing in Uganda and continues to contribute significantly to the country’s sports development agenda,” Ogwel said.
This year’s edition is expected to be the biggest since the marathon’s inception, with organisers targeting 8,000 participants from across the world.
Runners from more than 20 countries have already registered, highlighting the growing international appeal of the race and its emergence as one of Africa’s fastest-rising destination marathons.
