The Elgon Half Marathon with Joshua Cheptegei is officially back for its third edition and will take place on 1st November 2025 in Mbale City.
The event, jointly organized by the Joshua Cheptegei Development Foundation (JOCDEF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), promises another exciting mix of athletics and advocacy.
Olympic champion and world record-holder Joshua Cheptegei will once again lead the charge, using the marathon as a platform to drive awareness around climate action, tourism development, gender-based violence prevention, and youth empowerment in the Elgon region.
This year’s race will feature 21km, 10km, and 5km categories, winding through the scenic foothills of Mount Elgon National Park.
Registration costs 50,000 UGX and covers a race kit that includes an official t-shirt, medal, and a chance to win prizes. Proceeds from the event will support JOCDEF’s ongoing work in community transformation.
“We’re not just running for medals, we’re running for a better future,” said Cheptegei. “This event brings communities together and shines a light on the importance of protecting our environment while also uplifting our people.”
The marathon has attracted wide support from both public and private sectors. Government entities like the Ministry of Tourism, Uganda Wildlife Authority, and Uganda Tourism Board have joined hands with organizations such as UNIDO, Oxfam, Red Cross and Red Cross. Corporate sponsors include Stanbic Bank, UBA, Crown Beverages, Nile Breweries, Brussels Airlines, and others.
