Kasese is buzzing with activity as preparations hit top gear for the fourth edition of the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon, set for August 23rd.
The event has grown into one of Uganda’s premier annual sporting spectacles, drawing athletes from across East Africa and beyond.
Organizers say this year’s marathon will deliver more than just medals. With heightened security, a surge in business, and a spotlight on the Rwenzori Mountains, the race promises to blend sport, tourism, and economic opportunity.
Event organizer Maren Hald Bjørgum noted that the marathon is designed to give runners and visitors a unique experience that goes beyond the competition. “We want people to enjoy not just the race, but also the cultural and natural richness of this region,” she said.
Authorities say security has been prioritized to ensure smooth operations throughout the event. Rwenzori East police spokesperson SP Nelson Tumushime confirmed that all measures are in place to safeguard athletes and visitors.
Tourism promoters also see the marathon as a perfect stage to showcase the Rwenzori Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and attractions like Queen Elizabeth National Park. Benson Asiimwe, Tooro Regional Sales Manager, emphasized that the race continues to highlight the region’s potential as a leading destination for adventure and leisure.
Business owners in Kasese are equally upbeat, preparing for the influx of visitors who often translate into higher sales and exposure for local enterprises. One business operator remarked that the marathon is now a reliable boost to the local economy each year.
Organizers have also pledged to make this edition bigger and greener, promoting sustainability alongside fitness and tourism. “We want this marathon to not only inspire resilience but also support a cleaner, more sustainable environment,” Bjørgum added.
With the final touches being made, the anticipation in Kasese continues to build. For athletes, tourists, and local businesses, August 23rd is shaping up to be a day where running meets resilience and tourism meets opportunity at the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains.
