The Ugandan government has committed Shs800 million to support the fourth edition of the Tusker Mountain Rwenzori Marathon, positioning it as one of the country’s flagship tourism events.
Scheduled for August 23 in Kasese District, the marathon is expected to attract thousands of runners from Uganda and around the world.
Doreen Katusiime, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, said the event goes beyond sport, serving as a platform to promote Uganda’s beauty, peace, and tourist attractions.
“Today, tourists want more than just sightseeing. They want experiences. Sports tourism is helping us tell the world a new story about Uganda,” Katusiime said, adding that such events stimulate local economies by supporting hotels, restaurants, and tour operators while creating jobs.
The Ministry has pledged ongoing annual support, including funding, planning, and promotion. “We want this marathon to grow bigger each year. It is one of the ways we can use sports to boost tourism and support our local people,” she added.
The marathon was founded in 2022 by Amos Wekesa, inspired by Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro Marathon. He believes the Rwenzori Mountains, with their snow-capped peaks, wildlife, and surrounding national parks, have the potential to surpass similar destinations if well marketed.
“The Rwenzori Mountains are some of the most amazing in Africa. Yet many nearby communities are still poor. This marathon helps shine a light on those places,” Wekesa said.
Participation has surged since the inaugural event, which drew 800 runners from four countries. Last year’s edition hosted nearly 4,000 runners from 33 countries, generating over Shs15 billion in spending across Kasese and neighbouring towns. This year’s turnout is projected to exceed 6,000 runners plus thousands of visitors.
Juliana Kaggwa, CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board, described the marathon as one of Uganda’s most important tourism activities. “It’s more than running, it’s about culture, nature, and bringing people together. It shows the world that Uganda is ready for adventure tourism,” she said.
Kaggwa noted that the success of the Rwenzori event is sparking plans for similar marathons in regions such as Gulu, Elgon, and Karamoja, creating a nationwide sports tourism movement.
The Rwenzori Marathon is certified by global athletics bodies, enabling athletes to use it as a qualifier for prestigious international events like the Olympics and South Africa’s Comrades Marathon. Organisers ensure top-tier standards with expert timers and professional race equipment.