L-R Standard Chartered Usher, Rosaline Waichinga, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing Standard Chartered Kenya and Africa, Joyce Kibe, Chairperson, Local Organizing Committee for the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, Peter Gitau, Chief Compliance Officer, Kenya and East Africa, David Muindi
The upcoming 21st edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon is set to make a significant impact with the announcement of over KES 173 million raised from sponsors. The marathon will take place on October 27, 2024, at Uhuru Gardens, attracting thousands of participants and spectators.
The funds, which include both cash and in-kind contributions, aim to enhance the overall experience for runners and support community initiatives. Since its inception, the marathon has hosted over 300,000 runners, establishing itself as one of the premier athletic events in the region.
Peter Gitau, Chair of the Local Organising Committee, expressed enthusiasm about the sponsorships, stating, “We are excited to collaborate with our sponsors to promote community engagement, boost local economic growth, and empower youth through the FutureMakers initiative by Standard Chartered.” The marathon’s proceeds will specifically benefit young people, particularly women and individuals with disabilities, helping them learn, earn, and grow.
This year’s marathon has garnered the support of more than 40 sponsors, an increase from 30 in 2023, reflecting a unified commitment to nurturing talent and fostering sports on a global scale. Notably, Standard Chartered has contributed KES 100 million, while Prudential has pledged KES 10 million as the official sponsor of the 5KM Family Fun Run, ensuring comprehensive insurance coverage for all participants.
Gwen Kinisu, CEO of Prudential, highlighted the partnership’s focus, stating, “By partnering with the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, we reinforce our commitment to initiatives that positively impact communities. Our goal is not only to support emerging and elite athletes but also to inspire families to embrace a culture of fitness and well-being.”
The marathon stands out for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, featuring a special category for persons with disabilities. Light for the World has collaborated to ensure the marathon’s accessibility, while CBM Christian Blind Mission will provide essential support for participants with disabilities. Additionally, Kisskids will set up mothers’ rooms along the route and venue for participating mothers.
Daniel Oloo, Interim Country Director of Light for World Kenya, emphasized the importance of inclusivity, stating, “Disability inclusion at the Standard Chartered Marathon is a critical step toward building an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of ability, can participate fully.”
Other notable sponsors contributing cash support include G4S, MSF-Doctors Without Borders, La Roche, Bata, Carrefour Supermarkets, Healthy U, and Heineken 0.0. Refreshments will be provided by Coca-Cola and Minute Maid, while AAR Healthcare, Aga Khan University Hospital, and AMREF will ensure emergency medical support during the event.
Logistical support will be provided by companies such as PTG, which will deliver offer kits to corporate participants, and Little Africa, which will facilitate shuttling services to and from the venue. NTT Data will ensure reliable internet connectivity throughout the marathon.
The event is also set to boost sports tourism, with support from Magical Kenya, Kenya Wildlife Services, Bonfire Adventures, and Kenya Airways, the official flight partner. Efforts focused on sustainability will involve organizations like Unicaf, WWF, and Takataka as Hurricane Global manages cleaning services.
June Chepkemei, CEO of the Kenya Tourism Board, remarked on the collaboration’s significance, stating, “This partnership provides an invaluable platform to promote Kenya as a bucket-list destination for runners and sports tourists from around the world.”
Hosted by Nairobi County and the Uhuru Gardens National Monument and Museum, this year’s marathon expects over 25,000 participants across various distances, including the 42km, 21km, and 10km races, alongside a popular 5km Family Run. Runners will enjoy refreshments from local providers, with relief stations featuring products from Rohto.
The Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon not only highlights the spirit of athleticism but also reinforces a commitment to community empowerment and inclusivity, marking a significant milestone in the region’s sporting calendar.