According to Amos Wekesa, the marathon team lead, the 2024 marathon has seen a remarkable increase in participation.
“This year, over 4,000 runners are expected from about 35 countries, up from 2,200 last year, and 800 during the inaugural Rwenzori marathon,” Wekesa stated.
As of Tuesday morning, Wekesa revealed that international journalist from Africa and the Americas had arrived in the country, with more expected later in the week from The Times, Telegraph among other outlets.
Additionally, ambassadors from major sports shoe brands such as Nike, Adidas, Puma, and Asics have arrived.
Runners from various countries have begun arriving, many integrating the marathon with wildlife safaris in Uganda’s national parks.
“Right now all the accommodation places in Kasese are booked, and as we speak bookings have gone as far as Mbarara, some people are sleeping in Bushenyi, Ishaka and others in Fort Portal,” he said.
“This year’s marketing has been so good and we expect even bigger numbers next year. We are already getting requests from universities in the US asking to bring in over 250 runners next year.”
This year, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities has thrown its full support behind the event, committing UGX 50 million to enhance the marathon experience and promote Uganda’s natural heritage.
Ministry support
State Minister for Tourism, Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, not only reaffirmed his support during a press conference but also announced his participation in the 42 km race, a gesture that highlights the event’s significance to Uganda’s tourism and sports sectors.
Minister Bahinduka also emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting athletics as a pillar of sports tourism.
“We have been supporting runners such as Cheptegei, Halima Nakayi, Winnie Nanyondo, and Jacob Kiplimo, and we will continue to do so because of the value they bring to the tourism sector,” he explained.
He encouraged all Ugandans to participate in or spectate the marathon, highlighting the improved infrastructure and the welcoming local communities in Kasese.
Discounts
Adding to the excitement, Paul Ninsiima, the Sales and Marketing Manager of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, announced special incentives for marathon participants.
Runners will receive a 50% discount on entry fees to Queen Elizabeth National Park from August 23-25, 2024, and have a chance to win gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits through a raffle exclusive to race participants.
