Uganda’s flagship mountain race, the Rwenzori Marathon, has officially been granted World Athletics Label Road Race status for 2026, marking a historic first for the country.
The marathon, scheduled for August 22, 2026, in Kasese at the foothills of the iconic Rwenzori Mountains, becomes the first Ugandan race to receive the prestigious certification from World Athletics.
Three Major Milestones
According to marathon founder Amos Wekesa, the 2026 edition secures three major achievements: Official recognition as a World Athletics Label Road Race, Designation as an official qualifier for the Comrades Marathon in South Africa and Recognition as an official qualifier for the Two Oceans Marathon.
The Comrades Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon are among the world’s most prestigious ultra-distance races, and qualification status places the Rwenzori Marathon on the global competitive map.
Organisers said the elite status was secured after meeting strict international standards in course measurement accuracy, medical preparedness, anti-doping compliance, and event organisation.
Government Backing
Uganda’s State Minister for Sports, Peter Ogwang, welcomed the development and pledged $1 million in government support to further strengthen sports development, tourism promotion, and youth engagement initiatives linked to the marathon.
Boost to Tourism and Local Economy
Since its launch in 2022, the Rwenzori Marathon has grown rapidly, attracting thousands of local and international runners. Organisers report that annual climbers to the Rwenzori ranges have surged from approximately 1,000 to 10,000, reflecting the race’s impact on adventure tourism in western Uganda.
The event, also branded as the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon, has become a symbol of national pride, blending athletics with conservation and community development in the Kasese region.
With global recognition now secured, organisers say their focus is already shifting to an even more ambitious 2027 edition, aiming to cement Uganda’s position on the international long-distance running calendar.
