Mombasa, Kenya – More than 1,000 runners, fitness enthusiasts, tourism stakeholders, and members of the public participated in the Rwenzori Marathon Activation Run in Mombasa, demonstrating growing excitement ahead of the annual marathon and underscoring the important role of sports in strengthening relations between Uganda and Kenya. The activation run formed part of a broader campaign designed to mobilize participation and raise awareness ahead of the 2026 Rwenzori Marathon, scheduled to take place in Uganda this August. In addition to promoting the marathon, the initiative aims to position Uganda as a leading destination for sports tourism, adventure travel, and cultural exchange within the East African region.
The event was attended by Amb. Charles Ssentongo, Chief of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who was received by the Consul General, Amb. Herbert Kiguli. Also in attendance were officials from the Mombasa County Government, representatives from the tourism sector, members of the sporting community, and other stakeholders committed to promoting regional cooperation through sports and tourism. Addressing participants, Amb. Ssentongo described the Rwenzori Marathon as one of the most significant events on the regional sporting calendar. He noted that the marathon serves as an important platform for bringing people together, strengthening regional bonds, and celebrating the shared heritage and values of East Africa.
He encouraged residents of Mombasa and other Kenyans to participate in the marathon and take advantage of the opportunity to experience Uganda’s renowned hospitality, vibrant culture, and diverse tourism attractions. Amb. Ssentongo emphasised that sports possess a unique ability to connect people across borders, fostering friendship, mutual understanding, and cooperation among communities. He further observed that initiatives such as the Rwenzori Marathon contribute meaningfully to the vision of the East African Community by promoting people-to-people engagement, cultural exchange, and regional integration. According to him, sporting events continue to play an important role in building stronger relationships among citizens of East African partner states.
Representing the Mombasa County Government, Mr. Mohamed Osman Ali, County Executive Committee Member for Tourism, Trade and Culture, called for enhanced collaboration among East African countries in the promotion of tourism and cultural exchange. He emphasized that countries within the region should work together as partners with a shared objective of positioning East Africa as a world-class tourism destination.
Mr. Ali noted that stronger tourism cooperation between Uganda and Kenya can create new economic opportunities, support local enterprises, generate employment, and contribute to sustainable development. He also highlighted the importance of cultural exchanges in fostering regional unity and strengthening a common East African identity. The activation run generated significant enthusiasm among participants, many of whom expressed interest in travelling to Uganda to take part in the marathon. The event also provided an opportunity to showcase Uganda’s unique tourism offerings, particularly the breathtaking Rwenzori Mountains, whose spectacular scenery provides the backdrop for one of the region’s most distinctive and memorable marathon experiences.
