By Jamillah Kemigisa
Kasese town was brought to a dramatic standstill today as more than 6,000 athletes from 35 countries thronged its streets for the 4th edition of the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon, briefly turning the western Ugandan town into a global sporting capital. From sunrise until midday, transport was paralyzed, with only motorcycles and pedestrians allowed as runners and cheering crowds filled the roads against the towering backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains.
Marathon founder Amosi Wakesa could not hide his joy as he reflected on the rapid growth of the race. “When we began in 2022, we had just 800 runners. In 2023, we had 2,200 from 17 countries. By 2024, we grew to 4,000 from 33 countries, and now in 2025, we have 6,000 from 35 countries. This is proof that the Rwenzori dream belongs not just to Uganda, but to the world,” he said.
Kenya’s Deputy Speaker, Hon. Gladys Jepkosgei Boss, praised the marathon as a rare attraction. “Back in Chicago they run between skyscrapers. In Kasese, you run with mountains, hills, and lakes surrounding you. This is more than a marathon—it is a world-class tourism experience,” she said. Uganda’s State Minister for Tourism, Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, hailed the marathon for transforming Kasese, citing improved roads, infrastructure, and community benefits.
The 42 km race produced thrilling victories. Rachael Zena Chebesi claimed the women’s crown in 2 hours 35 minutes, earning UGX 10 million, ahead of runner-up Chemusiko Carene. “I came to Kasese to test myself against the mountains, and the crowd gave me the energy I needed. This is one of the most beautiful and challenging races I’ve ever run,” Chebesi said. In the men’s category, Bona Cheptochi triumphed in 2 hours 21 minutes, ahead of John Mutuyi Musi. “The altitude, the heat, the hills—it pushed me beyond my limits. But the support from Kasese people carried me to the finish line. I will never forget this,” Cheptochi told reporters.
The marathon also served as a climate awareness campaign, featuring tree planting, plastic recycling, and eco-friendly water stations. Celebrations climaxed with a Neon Rave street party headlined by Grammy nominee Eddy Kenzo and local sensation Kasese Giant, transforming Stanley Street into a carnival of lights, music, and dance.
With participation numbers soaring and international recognition rising, the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori Marathon now ranks alongside Africa’s premier endurance races. As the sun set behind the mystical “Mountains of the Moon,” Kasese stood proud—not just as host of Uganda’s largest marathon, but as the new heartbeat of sports tourism in Africa.
