The fifth edition of the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon was launched in Kampala on Thursday, positioning Uganda firmly on the global sports tourism map. Scheduled for August 22, 2026, in Kasese, the event is expected to attract a record 8,000 local and international runners, a milestone further strengthened by the marathon’s newly attained World Athletics Label Road Race status, placing Uganda among the world’s certified road race hosts.
Health preparedness took centre stage during the launch, with the Ministry of Health providing reassurance that also doubles as a tourism boost. Senior Public Relations Officer Emmanuel Ainebyona announced that Uganda had successfully discharged its final Ebola patient, marking a major milestone as the country begins the countdown toward being officially declared Ebola-free.
“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. 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 athletics, the marathon is emerging as a platform for data-driven event planning. Through a partnership with the UN Pulse Lab at Makerere University, organisers are gathering intelligence to inform future large-scale events and strengthen Uganda’s capacity to host international engagements.
Janet Nabakoza described the marathon as a “proof of concept,” explaining that the data and logistics systems developed through the event could support preparations for major national and international events, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
“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.”
The tourism value of the marathon was reinforced by the Uganda Tourism Board, with Vice Chairperson Ronald Kawamara highlighting the event’s ambition to compete globally while delivering economic benefits to 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.”
Kawamara noted that by incorporating routes around the Rwenzori foothills and Queen Elizabeth National Park, the marathon offers a unique opportunity to showcase Uganda’s biodiversity and natural attractions to visitors worldwide.
Marathon Chairman Amos Wekesa framed the event as a platform for national pride, local enterprise, and the promotion of Uganda’s tourism potential. He announced plans for an expanded exhibition village aimed at increasing participation and creating more opportunities for businesses.
“We want to inspire Ugandans to love our country more. This event is a powerful vehicle for sports tourism.”
Government backing remained a key pillar of the marathon’s growth, with Hon. Peter Ogwang announcing a UGX 3.7 billion contribution, one of the strongest public investments in the event’s history.
“There is no way we can build the ‘Brand Uganda’ if we ourselves do not participate. We call upon Ugandans to maximise and seize these massive revenue-generating opportunities, and we challenge members of government to lace up their shoes and participate.”
The National Council of Sports also pledged continued support, with General Secretary Dr. Bernard Patrick Ogwel committing to serve as an ambassador to promote the marathon globally.
“I will be an active ambassador to promote it globally.”
With record participation targets, international certification, strong public-private investment, and a growing data innovation focus, the 2026 Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon represents more than a sporting competition. It is becoming a coordinated national effort to position Uganda as one of Africa’s leading sports tourism destinations.
