GOVERNMENT RALLIES BEHIND THE TUSKER LITE MT. RWENZORI MARATHON; A FLAGSHIP EVENT FOR SPORTS TOURISM IN UGANDA

mtwa tourism
Aug 6
3 min read

Updated: Aug 6

Kampala, Uganda — The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, in partnership with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and Uganda Airlines, has announced a generous contribution of UGX 800 million towards the fourth edition of the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon; a rising star in Uganda’s sports tourism calendar.

The 2025 edition of the internationally accredited marathon is slated for August 23rd in Kasese district. The highlight of this year’s race will be the 42km run commencing at the iconic Equator Monument in Kikorongo, within the Queen Elizabeth National Park, blending the thrill of athletic challenge with the awe of Uganda’s breathtaking natural beauty.

While officiating at the launch of the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon today, Doreen Katusiime, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, acknowledged the important role marathons play in promoting tourism. She noted that such events attract a diverse and passionate group of participants from both local communities and international destinations, who journey to new destinations not only to compete but to explore and connect. “The Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon is not just a sporting event,” she remarked. “It is a strategic tool for promoting Uganda’s unique tourism offerings, empowering local communities, and branding Uganda as a premier destination for health and adventure travel.”

STRENGTHENING SPORTS TOURISM; A SMART INVESTMENT

The Ministry recognizes the growing global trend of health and wellness tourism, especially through marathons. Globally, sports tourism is a multibillion-dollar industry, and Uganda is poised to benefit from this wave by positioning the Rwenzori Marathon as a world-class event.

This year, runners from 32 countries across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa have already registered, with over 526 participants from Kenya alone and targets to reach runners from 50 countries.

In response to this growing interest and to bolster participation, the government and partners have rolled out key elements of support, including:

• Discounted entry fees to Uganda’s national parks, encouraging runners and visitors to explore the country’s natural wonders beyond the race.

• Travel facilitation for runners, ensuring seamless access to the marathon site.

• A familiarisation tour for influencer groups attending the event, designed to showcase the best of Uganda’s tourism offerings.

• Discounted airfare by Uganda Airlines for marathon participants jetting into the country.

• Promotional support within Kasese and neighbouring regions to raise awareness and rally community participation.

• A firm commitment by the Ministry to support the growth and continuity of the marathon in the years to come.

“We call on all Ugandans to travel to Kasese, support the runners, and experience the incredible beauty of the Rwenzori region,” the Permanent Secretary stressed; “Our commitment to participate in and promote this marathon stems from our belief in its transformational impact on tourism and local livelihoods.”

A SHARED VISION ; PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTOR COLLABORATION

The Ministry commended the private sector, particularly hoteliers and the community in Kasese, for their continued support and hospitality. Their role is instrumental in managing the influx of visitors and ensuring memorable experiences.

“This isn’t just about one weekend in western Uganda,” said Amos Wekesa, Team Lead for the marathon. “It’s about unlocking long-term benefits, enhancing Uganda’s tourism brand globally, and proving that our country can host high-quality, high-impact international events.”

The collaborative approach between Government Agencies and other MDAs that is; Ministry of foreign affairs, Ministry of health, Ministry of Public service, Ministry of gender, KCCA and Uganda Breweries; the highlight sponsor of the Tuskerlite Mt. Rwenzori marathon and local communities underscores a new model of tourism growth, one that is inclusive, sustainable, and driven by shared success.

Uganda joins other global destinations like Cape Town, Athens, and Tokyo, which have successfully used marathons to drive visibility, attract investment and boost tourism receipts.

ABOUT THE ROUTE AND EXPERIENCE

The marathon route offers participants a rare opportunity to run alongside wildlife and natural landscapes, starting at the Equator and winding through the gateway of Queen Elizabeth National Park, creating a unique blend of sport and safari that’s unmatched on the continent.

As part of Uganda’s broader tourism promotion strategy, the Ministry views the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon as a flagship event for sustainable, experience-driven travel, especially in lesser-known but high-potential destinations like Kasese.