HOSEA KATAMBA: Rwenzori marathon; a case of what’s possible in diversifying Uganda’s tourism offering

What the report says

Watchdog Uganda published an opinion analysis on the Mt. Rwenzori Marathon, describing the event as an example of how Uganda could broaden its tourism offer beyond traditional wildlife and nature attractions. The article says the marathon, held in Kasese and now in its fifth year, drew 8,000 runners from more than 42 countries, up from 6,000 runners from 36 countries the previous year. It also notes that the race was certified as a World Athletics Label Road Race, which the writer presents as a sign of growing international recognition.

The piece argues that the marathon brought economic activity to the area through spending on accommodation, fuel, meals, entertainment and shopping. Citing a survey referenced in the article, the writer estimates that participants spent at least UGX 4 billion in the local economy over the marathon weekend, based on an average spend of UGX 500,000 per runner. The report says this does not include tourists, service providers, entertainers and others who also came for the event.

The commentary places the marathon in a wider policy context, linking it to Uganda’s efforts to grow tourism earnings and diversify products under the National Development Plan IV. It says sports tourism and other experience-based attractions could help lengthen tourist stays, increase domestic travel and create new opportunities for local communities. The article also mentions Uganda Development Bank support for the event as an example of private-sector and public-sector collaboration in tourism development.