"Running on the edge: The Rwenzori Marathon's unique blend of nature, culture

In the shadow of Africa's towering "Rwenzori mountain" the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon has emerged as one of the continent's most distinctive sporting events.

This marathon, held annually in Kasese, Uganda, is more than just a race; it is a celebration of nature, culture, and community, drawing runners from across the globe to one of the most breathtaking yet challenging landscapes on Earth.

Unlike traditional marathons held on paved city streets, the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon offers participants an experience deeply intertwined with the raw beauty of Uganda's Rwenzori Mountains.

The course winds through verdant valleys, across crystal-clear rivers, and past local villages where the warmth and hospitality of the Bakonzo people provide a memorable backdrop.

The dramatic landscapes and the unpredictable mountain weather add a layer of unpredictability, making every race a new adventure, even for those who return year after year.

Boosting tourism and local economies

But the Rwenzori Marathon is more than just a test of physical prowess; it's a powerful engine for local economic development.

The influx of foreign participants has turned Kasese into a vibrant hub of activity during the marathon season.

Hotels, restaurants, and local markets buzz with life, as visitors from around the world converge to witness or participate in this extraordinary event.

Each year, the marathon attracts thousands of runners and their supporters, all of whom contribute to the local economy.

According to research conducted by Makerere University, the 2023 edition of the Rwenzori Marathon attracted 2200 runners from 17 Countries, and over 120,000 domestic runners and participants generating an estimate of shs 15 billion  most of which was left in Kasese.

The marathon has injected millions of Ugandan shillings into Kasese's economy, with an estimated 60% of this revenue coming directly from foreign participants.

This includes not just the marathon fees, but also the spending on accommodation, food, and local crafts, which all go towards supporting local businesses and artisans, most items now in Kasese have doubled the price, hotels are full and and everyone is excited.

"I wish government took up this initiative and started other Marathons for example, the Elgon Marathon and other places," Amos Wekesa, Chief Coordinator, Rwenzori Marathon said.

This year's  edition slated for August, 24,  introduces a new 10km route, complementing the existing 5km, 21km, and 42km courses and is poised to attract over 4000 participants from 35 countries who will be racing across the Equator & admire the snow-capped Rwenzori mountains in Kasese, Uganda.

Moreover, the event has put Kasese on the map as a destination for adventure tourism.

The marathon is often the highlight of a broader travel experience that includes safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, treks to the Rwenzori glaciers, and cultural exchanges with local communities.

This expanded tourism footprint has led to increased investments in infrastructure, from better roads to new hotels, which further boosts the region's appeal.

Empowering local community

Perhaps the most significant impact of the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon is its role in empowering the local community.

The event has created jobs, both directly and indirectly, from event planning and management to hospitality and retail. Local youth, who once had limited economic opportunities, are now finding employment as guides, porters, and vendors, thanks to the marathon’s growing popularity.

The marathon has also fostered a sense of pride and ownership among the residents of Kasese who have lived in the Rwenzori region for centuries, see the marathon as a way to share their rich cultural heritage with the world.

A race with a vision

As the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon continues to grow, so too does its vision for the future. The organizers aim to expand the event, attracting even more international participants while ensuring that the benefits continue to flow to the local community.

There are plans to enhance the race experience by incorporating more of the region's natural beauty into the course, as well as developing new routes that offer different challenges and experiences for runners.

In the end, the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon is not just a race—it's a transformative event that brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate the beauty of the Rwenzori Mountains, the strength of the human spirit, and the resilience of the local community.

It’s a testament to how sports can bridge cultures, generate economic opportunities, and create lasting positive change.

As the runners cross the finish line, breathless and exhilarated, they carry with them not just memories of a challenging race, but the spirit of a community that is thriving on the edge of the world.