The Ugandan government is pulling out all the stops to make this year’s Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon an international spectacle. At a colorful launch event held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters, diplomats, business leaders, and sports enthusiasts gathered to kick off preparations for the fourth edition of the marathon, set to take place in Kasese District.

The event marks a major push in Uganda’s sports diplomacy strategy, using athletics to boost tourism, strengthen international ties, and showcase the country’s natural beauty. Vincent Waiswa Bagiire, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, made it clear that this is more than just a race—it’s a tool for global engagement.

“Promoting Uganda’s image abroad is one of our key missions,” Bagiire said. “Events like the Rwenzori Marathon help us connect with the world, attract visitors, and open doors for economic growth.”

The marathon, which has already drawn runners from 34 countries, is quickly becoming one of East Africa’s most anticipated sporting events. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been actively promoting it through Uganda’s embassies worldwide, turning it into a flagship project for sports tourism.

Amos Wekesa, the brains behind the marathon, shared how the event has transformed Kasese. Once troubled by health crises and insecurity, the region is now buzzing with international visitors. Hotels and lodges are nearly fully booked ahead of the race, and local businesses are gearing up for a surge in customers.

“This marathon is changing lives,” Wekesa said. “It’s bringing in tourists, creating jobs, and putting Kasese on the map as a must-visit destination.”

The marathon isn’t just about running—it’s also about conservation. The race route takes participants through some of Uganda’s most breathtaking landscapes, including the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Lake George. Organizers are using the event to raise awareness about climate change, particularly the shrinking glaciers on the Rwenzoris.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs sees the marathon as a perfect fit for Uganda’s economic diplomacy strategy, which focuses on tourism, agriculture, minerals, and technology. “Sports and tourism go hand in hand,” Bagiire explained. “When people come for the marathon, they spend money on hotels, food, transport, and souvenirs. That boosts the local economy.”

Uganda’s embassies in cities like Washington, Pretoria, Nairobi, and Dubai have been organizing promotional runs to drum up interest. These events have not only attracted runners but also highlighted Uganda as a top travel destination.

The government has praised the marathon organizers for their creativity and patriotism, calling the event a model for how sports can drive development. The Ministry has pledged full support to ensure the marathon’s success, both as a sporting spectacle and as a tool for international cooperation.

Bagiire ended the launch with an open invitation: “Whether you’re a runner, a supporter, or just someone who loves adventure, come to Kasese. Experience the thrill of the race, the warmth of our people, and the stunning beauty of Uganda.”

With just weeks to go before the starting gun fires, excitement is building. The Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon is proving that sports can be more than just competition—it can be a bridge between nations, a boost for local economies, and a celebration of Uganda’s natural wonders.

For Kasese, the marathon is a golden opportunity. For Uganda, it’s a chance to shine on the global stage. And for the runners making their way to the starting line, it’s an adventure they won’t soon forget.