Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has endorsed the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon as a strategic platform for sports diplomacy, tourism promotion and enhancing the country’s international image.
The fifth edition of the annual marathon is scheduled for Saturday, August 22, in Kasese, with about 8,000 runners from Uganda and more than 30 countries expected to participate.
Speaking ahead of the event, Ambassador Joh Leonard Mugerwa, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reaffirmed the ministry’s support for the marathon, describing it as an important avenue for showcasing Uganda to the international community.
He said Uganda’s diplomatic missions abroad have been actively mobilising participants and conducting promotional activities in their respective areas of accreditation.
“This marathon goes beyond sport. It is a celebration of Uganda—our people, our culture and the many attractions our country has to offer. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with our missions abroad, is proud to support the marathon,” Mugerwa said.
“Our missions have mobilised runners, organised activation activities in their respective areas of accreditation, and will also participate in the event in Kasese. This is fully aligned with our mandate to promote and market Uganda internationally.”
Mugerwa encouraged participants, particularly members of the diplomatic community, to use their visit to Kasese as an opportunity to experience the region beyond the marathon.
“We encourage visitors not to come to Kasese solely for the race. Take time to explore the region, interact with its people and experience the rich cultures and natural beauty that western Uganda has to offer,” he said.
He noted that the international exposure generated by the marathon could contribute significantly to Uganda’s image and tourism profile, particularly following the event’s recognition as a World Athletics Label race.
“We are confident that the marathon will contribute to improving Uganda’s image abroad. The international publicity generated by the event, including its coverage and recognition through World Athletics, provides Uganda with an important platform to showcase itself to the world,” Mugerwa added.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also invited members of the diplomatic community to participate in the marathon and experience Uganda’s hospitality, culture and natural attractions first-hand.
The Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon has grown into one of Uganda’s major annual road-running events, combining competitive athletics with tourism and community engagement in the Rwenzori region.
The 2026 edition will be streamed live on the World Athletics YouTube channel, further extending the event’s international reach.
Now recognised as a World Athletics Label race, the marathon is expected to attract increased international attention and provide Uganda with an additional platform to promote its tourism and sporting potential.
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