Athletics
Government pledges Shs 3.5 Billion towards 2026 Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon
The Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon in Kasese is back, this time stepping onto the global stage, promising to be bigger, bolder, and more impactful than ever before.
This year marks the fifth edition of the marathon, which was launched on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel.
The launch event was officiated by the Guest of Honour, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, alongside various cabinet ministers and other key stakeholders.
The Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon returns as a fully recognised global event.
The race has been included in the World Athletics activity calendar and has also attained Label Marathon status.
Being officially endorsed by the global athletics governing body means that the marathon has met the highest standards of quality, safety, and elite competition.
As only the third race in the region and the seventh on the continent to attain Label Marathon status, the event now allows participants to qualify for the Comrades Marathon, the Two Oceans Marathon, and enjoy a range of other benefits.
In his remarks, Hon. Peter Ogwang, the Minister of State for Sports, hailed the milestone as a major achievement for the country and a boost to Uganda’s profile on the international sporting stage.
Hon. Ogwang reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting sports development and announced a ministry pledge of USD 1 million (at least Shs 3.5 billion) 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.
The development has been widely welcomed by leading global voices in road racing, among them international sports commentator Rob Walker, who has personally taken part in two editions of the event.
In his address, Hon. 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.
“People-led initiatives like this are always a powerful launch pad 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,” he said, adding that he will take part in the race in Kasese this August.
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.
As title sponsors, Tusker Lite continues to champion active, balanced, and vibrant lifestyles. The marathon is a natural extension of the brand’s DNA, uniting people, wellness, music, and culture in a unique and memorable experience.
“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.”
In just a few years, Tusker Lite has become synonymous with marathon culture in Uganda. Today, when people think marathon, they think Tusker Lite,” said Catherine Ndungu, Marketing & Innovations Director at Uganda Breweries Limited.
Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, attended the event, highlighting the marathon’s integral role in boosting tourism and showcasing Uganda’s scenic destinations.
The State Minister for ICT, Godfrey Kabbyanga, 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. Hotels are 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, Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, UNOC, UCC, and KIA Motors.
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Nigerian sprinter Udodi Onwuzurike continued his strong run on the European athletics circuit after finishing second in the men’s 200 metres at the Wiesław Maniak Memorial in Szczecin, Poland.
Onwuzurike clocked 20.26 seconds to secure the silver position, finishing just 0.02 seconds behind American Brandon Hicklin, who won the race in 20.24 seconds. Belgium’s Simon Verherstraeten completed the podium in 20.55 seconds.
The race was run into a headwind of 0.8 metres per second, making Onwuzurike’s performance a solid outing against an international field. The official results confirmed the Nigerian finished second in the opening heat, which also served as the overall final.
The result adds another podium finish to Onwuzurike’s 2026 campaign as he continues to compete against some of the leading sprinters on the international circuit.
The Nigerian entered the race with a season’s best of 20.09 seconds and a personal best of 19.76 seconds in the 200m. His 19.76, recorded in 2023, remains one of the fastest times ever recorded by a Nigerian over the distance.
Onwuzurike has already established himself as an important figure in Nigerian athletics.
The 23-year-old first gained wider international attention in 2021 when he won the men’s 200m title at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Nairobi, becoming Nigeria‘s first winner in the event at that level since 1996.
He has since progressed to senior competition, representing Nigeria at major championships, including the 2024 Olympic Games and the 2025 World Athletics Championships.
At the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo, Onwuzurike advanced to the 200m semi-finals after running 20.27 seconds in the first round before recording 20.26 seconds in the semi-final.
His latest 20.26-second performance in Poland therefore continues a pattern of competitive displays on the international stage.
Although he narrowly missed out on the top position, the Nigerian finished ahead of Verherstraeten, Botswana’s Justice Oratile and several other international competitors.
For Nigerian athletics, Onwuzurike’s continued presence on the European circuit provides another opportunity for the country to remain represented among the leading performers in the men’s sprint events.
The Stanford-trained athlete will now look to build on his latest podium finish as the season progresses, with his focus likely to remain on improving his season’s best and moving closer to his 19.76-second personal best.
For now, Onwuzurike leaves Szczecin with a silver medal and another competitive performance to add to his growing international record.
The Nigerian missed gold by just two hundredths of a second, but his latest European outing shows that he remains firmly in the conversation among Africa’s leading 200m sprinters.
The post Udodi Onwuzurike clocks 20.26s for second place in Poland appeared first on Made In Africa Sport.
Kenyan Airforce Senior Private, Daisilah Jerono, flew to a thrilling victory over her compatriot, Faith Cherono at the Totalsports Women’s Race in Cape Town in celebration of National Women’s Day.
In a last-gasp sprint to the finish line on the city’s Grand Parade, Jerono proved the stronger and she broke the tape in 31 min 29 sec – just three seconds clear of Cherono. Lesotho’s Neheng Khatala claimed third in 33:23.
10 000 runners got underway from in front of the City Hall, below the statue of Nelson Mandela, apparently waving to the runners from the balcony from where he made his first speech on release from prison 36 years ago.
“The Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town once again showcased the incredible power of women coming together to celebrate fitness, friendship and purpose,” said Head of Marketing at Totalsports, Nikki Crous.
“It was inspiring to see thousands of women fill the streets of the Mother City, creating an unforgettable atmosphere while supporting the important work of PinkDrive. A heartfelt thank you to every participant, volunteer, partner and supporter who helped make the day such a memorable success.”
Given the windy conditions and the hilly course through some of the historic sections of the city it was remarkable that Jerono, 23, achieved her primary aim – to finish strongly and run a personal best time. That she cut 15 seconds off her previous best of 31:44 set in Boston, USA, just two months ago, points to the emergence of another sporting great from the highlands of Kenya.
“The race was so tough,” Jerono said. “It was so hilly and the weather for the race was not good – it was so windy. But I tried my best and I’m happy for the win.
“I didn’t come with the idea of winning. I came to see where I am in my training. I was not expecting it – it’s by God’s grace. The runners were so cheerful, and I really liked how they cheered for us. God willing, maybe I’ll come back next year.”
The Kenyan duo raced to the front shortly after the start and were soon clear of the field, leaving Khatala, winner of last week’s Durban leg of the three-leg Totalsports Women’s Race series, to run solo in third for the entire race.
The two were still together as they crossed Darling Street into the finish precinct on the Grand Parade, where Jerono’s 800m track speed proved decisive.
Australian-registered Olga Firsova finished 4th in 36:20 as first master (40 years) with Cape Town runner, Marie-Tinka Olivier 5th.
Born at Eldoret, 2100 metres above sea level, where she attended school, Jerono has enjoyed the benefits of being raised at altitude and looks set for higher honours on track and road. The only athlete in her family, her parents and six siblings have been following her athletics career with pride.
“I joined the Kenyan Airforce in 2021 and I work in the Moi Airbase at Nairobi as part of the security detail for the base,” Jerono continued. “I’m fortunate to be able to get time off to train at a training facility nearby.”
Jerono’s disciplined training started to pay dividends 18 months back when she dipped under 70 minutes at the Ras Al Khamah Half Marathon in the UAE, before taking third at the Istanbul Half Marathon in April last year in 68:17.
She continued to improve, winning the Santa Pola Half Marathon in Spain in January this year in 67:26 before finishing second in the Bruj2Burj Half Marathon in Dubai in 66:59.
But it was her 65:21 in finishing second to Ethiopian Likina Amebaw in March which catapulted her into the top echelons of road running. Her performance, 7th fastest in the world over the half marathon in 2026, earned her a call-up to represent Kenya at the World Road Running Championships in Copenhagen next month.
“It will be my first time running for Kenya and its by God’s grace,” Jerono reflected. “The Cape Town race has been part of my preparation for the championship. My aim for the championships will be to go for a medal.”
Results Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town
1 Daisilah Jerono (Kenya) 31:29, 2 Faith Cherono (Kenya) 31:32, 3 Neheng Khatala (Lesotho) 33:23, 4 Olga Firsova (Australia) 36:20, 5 Marie-Tinka Olivier (South Africa) 37:25, 6 Nicole Van Wyk (South Africa) 37:43, 7 Deanne Laubscher (South Africa) 38:07, 8 Lauren Jonathan (South Africa) 38:18, 9 Yandiswa Shange (South Africa) 38:39, 10 Mia Steytler (South Africa) 38:49
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The official race kit for the 2026 Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon was officially unveiled at the Uganda Breweries Ltd headquarters in Luzira, Kampala, on Thursday, 6th August 2026.
The event featured a fashion showcase that transformed the traditional press briefing into a runway experience, complete with models unveiling the marathon kit.
The runway featured both commercial models and athletes, bringing together style and athleticism.
The kit has maintained its green colour palette, with its standout feature being the commemorative fifth anniversary emblem emblazoned on the lower right front of the jersey.
Other distinctive design elements include topographic contour patterns inspired by the terrain of the Rwenzori region, with flowing lines symbolizing the majestic Rwenzori Mountain ranges.
A rising sun represents new beginnings and the spirit of every runner, while the Uganda flag proudly celebrates the marathon’s national identity.
The elephant tusks pay tribute to the Tusker Lite brand, reflecting its partnership and support for active lifestyle.
The back has all the sponsors and partners with the headliner Tusker Lite, KIA, Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Rwenzori Natural Mineral water, Britam Insurance, UCC and Explore Uganda.
The kit jersey is complemented by a matching cap, bag, and water bottle.
Elizabeth Mutamuliza, the Marketing Manager for the Beer Category at UBL, said the fifth anniversary edition reflects the growth of the marathon and Tusker Lite’s commitment to promoting active lifestyles.
Five years ago, we set out to create more than just a race. We wanted to build an experience that brings people together through sport, adventure and lifestyle. Today, seeing the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon grow into one of the region’s leading destination races is a proud moment for us. The fifth anniversary kit represents that journey and celebrates everyone who has been part of building this incredible experience,” she said.
Elizabeth Mutamuliza, the Marketing Manager for the Beer Category at Uganda Breweries Limited
“At Tusker Lite, we believe in encouraging people to embrace active lifestyles while creating meaningful moments of connection and celebration. The marathon gives us the perfect platform to bring this to life, combining fitness, exploration, music and community in one unforgettable experience.” Mutamuliza added.
Sandra Againe, the Tusker Lite Brand Manager at Uganda Breweries Limited, reiterated Elizabeth’s sentiments whilst highlighting the wider impact of the marathon on Kasese and the surrounding communities.
The Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon has grown beyond being a sporting event. It has become a platform that drives tourism, creates opportunities for local businesses and showcases the beauty of the Rwenzori region to the world. Every year, we see more visitors coming to Kasese, benefiting hotels, restaurants, transport operators and local entrepreneurs. This is the kind of impact that makes the marathon truly special.
Sandra Againe, the Tusker Lite Brand Manager at Uganda Breweries Limited
For Amos Wekesa,the Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon Team Lead, the fifth edition marks yet another significant chapter in the marathon’s journey.
“From the first edition to now, the marathon has continued to grow in participation, recognition and global appeal. This year, we are preparing to welcome thousands of runners from Uganda and beyond to experience the beauty, challenge and excitement that make this race unique,” he said.
Wekesa added that the kit is not the only reward awaiting participants on race day.
“Every runner who crosses the finish line will receive a special medal as a symbol of achievement and a reminder of the incredible journey they have completed,” he said.
Details of official kit collection centres and pick-up dates in Kampala and Kasese will be communicated in the coming days through the marathon’s official communication channels.
Meanwhile, music sensation Fik Fameica, who is set to headline the marathon’s Neon Rave experience, gave attendees a glimpse of what awaits on D-day.
Therapper teased his viral hit Siaka, building anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying performance in Kasese.
Organisers are targeting 8,000 participants from across the world. Runners from more than 20 countries have already registered.
Registration for the 2026 Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon is still open via https://www.rwenzorimarathon.com/registration
The post 2026 Tusker Lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon kit unveiled ahead of August 22nd race appeared first on Kawowo Sports.
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