Uganda has earned its first ever World Athletics Label Road Race after the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon was officially awarded Label status, becoming the first marathon in the country and only the third in East Africa to receive the international recognition.
The designation places the Kasese based race on the global calendar of elite road events sanctioned by World Athletics. Label races are recognised among the leading road competitions worldwide and must meet strict technical and organisational standards, including AIMS certified course measurement, full electronic timing, closed roads and the hosting of an international elite field.
Out of more than 200 World Athletics Label Road Races worldwide, only ten are held on the African continent. With this milestone, Uganda joins that select group.
Held annually in Kasese, the marathon starts at the equator inside Queen Elizabeth National Park and finishes in the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains. Since its launch in 2022, the event has attracted runners from over 35 countries, positioning itself as a destination race that blends elite competition with tourism and community participation.
“This recognition affirms what we have been building since 2022: A race that meets global standards while remaining truly Ugandan,” said Amos Wekesa, Team Lead of the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon.
“East Africa produces some of the greatest distance runners in the world. Today, Uganda hosts a race recognised by the world. We have proven that we can organise at the highest international standard, right here in Uganda.”
The Label status strengthens the marathon’s position as an official qualifier for major international races such as the Two Oceans Marathon and the Comrades Marathon, further boosting Uganda’s profile as a sport tourism destination.
Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Deputy Speaker of Parliament, pledged government backing following the announcement.
“The Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon has built something special. We have taken notice and we are ready to support. It will be reflected in the national budget. Parliament will send a team to participate — and I will lead it myself. I am pleased to congratulate the organisers on achieving World Athletics Label status. See you in Kasese.”
State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang confirmed direct financial support.
“For years, our people have travelled abroad to run major marathons. But elite runners from abroad were not coming to us. We are changing that. Last year, the Ministry of Tourism stepped forward to support this marathon. This year, the Ministry of Sports is stepping in. We are committing USD 1 million to support the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon.”
State Minister for Tourism Martin Mugarra said the event had already transformed Kasese.
“Kasese has changed. It has become more vibrant, more prosperous, and safer. More importantly, events like the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon have increased both international and domestic tourism. We are happy to see more Ugandans traveling and exploring the country, inspired by initiatives like the marathon. That is why we are increasing our sponsorship of this marathon.”
Organisers said the recognition reflects collaboration between government, private sponsors and international technical partners. Key supporters include Uganda Breweries through its Tusker Lite brand, Standard Chartered, Britam Insurance, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Uganda Communications Commission, Kia through East Africa Motorcenter, and Uganda National Oil Company.
“The World Athletics Label is an important sporting recognition,” marathon team member Maren Hald Bjoergum added. “It signals that Uganda can host globally accredited events that meet the highest standards. It strengthens our tourism and elevates our place on the international marathon calendar.”
The 2026 edition of the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon is scheduled for August 22 in Kasese. Organisers expect the new status to attract a stronger elite field and increased international participation.
