The Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon is now World Athletics Certified, becoming the First International Certified Label Marathon in Uganda. This was revealed on Tuesday during the launch of 2026 (5th edition) which is slated to take place on 22nd August in Kasese. The kingpin of the Marathon is Mr. Amos Wekesa, it’s founder and proprietor of Great Lakes Safaris Limited.
Below is what Uganda will gain from the now globally recognized Marathon;
By Wasswa Emma
The Rwenzori Marathon being upgraded to a World Athletics Label Marathon is more than a title; it’s a game-changer for Uganda. The benefits are clear, measurable, and multi-layered.
Tourism Advantages to Uganda
The Label status draws more visitors every year, and they stay longer, arriving before and leaving after the marathon. This extended stay doesn’t just fill hotel rooms; it means visitors spend more on food, transport, and experiences, exploring the country beyond the race.
Infrastructure and amenity development. Hotels, lodges, restaurants, resorts, and roads expand to meet demand, creating a better experience for both tourists and locals.
Global media attention enhances Uganda’s online image and publicity, showing the world a vibrant, organized, and exciting destination.
Uganda is now firmly on the global map, recognized as a premier sports tourism destination.
Visitors interact with locals, fostering cultural exchange and connecting communities with the wider world.
Economic Advantages to Uganda
As of 2026, the global marathon industry is recognized as a multi-billion-dollar economic engine, with the top 50 generating over $5.5b for their host cities.
More visitors and longer stays mean more money circulating in local economies. Businesses, hotels, restaurants, shops, and service providers benefit.
Increased sales; high numbers equal high demand.
Employment opportunities, especially from developed infrastructure, particularly in hospitality, transport, and event management.
The growth isn’t limited to major cities; smaller towns in Western Uganda also benefit significantly, showing that sports tourism can transform rural and regional economies more than cities could.
The event encourages repeat visits, building long-term economic momentum.
Overall, the marathon strengthens Uganda’s tourism revenue, GDP contribution, and local livelihoods, turning sports tourism into a lasting economic asset that continues paying dividends well after the runners cross the finish line.
Celebrating a Milestone
Let us celebrate this big milestone as Ugandans. Most of all, let us celebrate the legendary @wekesa_amos for doing the unthinkable. Kudos to the Rwenzori Marathon team and the sponsors who have walked this journey side by side with them.
Thank you for believing in what once seemed like a dream. Today, we are here proud, firm, and upgraded.
Uganda will host A Label Marathon on 22nd Aug 2026
#TuskerLiteRwenzoriMarathon
