The Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon 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 recognized 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. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting sports development and announced a ministry pledge of USD 1 million 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. 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 and Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, UNOC, UCC, and KIA Motors.
