- Run for Wildlife, Run for Change: 2026 Lewa Safari Marathon Entries Now Open
By Jeff Kizzilah/Digital Editor
From Left Jason Feng Shen, Huawei Kenya – Safaricom Key Account Director, Huawei Kenya, Chantal Migongo-Bake, Tusk’s Chief Conservation Officer, James Maitai – Group Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO) at Safaricom PLC, John Kinoti, Lewa’s Chief Programmes and partnerships Officer and Zizwe Awuor, Director of Brand and Marketing at Safaricom PLC
Hundreds of Runners Expected at World-Famous Event Supporting Kenyan Conservation and Rural Communities
Many of Kenya’s most endangered species will be better protected, and rural communities empowered, thanks to funds raised by runners taking part in the 2026 Lewa Safari Marathon, organisers Tusk and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy announced today.
Since the inaugural marathon in 2000, the event has raised over KSh1.3 billion, helping to double populations of Hawksbill turtles and young Grevy’s zebras, increase rhino numbers by a quarter in some reserves, and safeguard mountain bongos in their only natural habitats around Mt Kenya and the Aberdares.
Funds from the marathon also support local communities, covering over 40,000 clinic visits, funding numerous school programs, and assisting rural enterprises, including pastoralist and women-led businesses. This year, organisers aim to raise over KSh15 million to continue this dual mission of conservation and community empowerment.
Hundreds of participants from dozens of countries are expected to compete. International entries are now open, with Kenyan and East African entries opening on March 27. The race will take place at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy on June 27, featuring a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and children’s race across sweeping savannah plains, riverbanks, and acacia woodland.
Mike Watson, CEO of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, said, Every step taken at the Lewa Safari Marathon powers real, measurable conservation impact. Through the commitment of every runner and supporter, we are securing critical habitats, protecting endangered species, and building resilient communities with sustainable livelihoods. A huge thanks as ever to our invaluable event sponsors. This collective action ensures conservation works for people as well as wildlife, for generations to come.”
Chantal Migongo-Bake of Tusk added,”The Lewa Safari Marathon is more than just a race, it’s a running challenge with purpose, uniting participants from around the world in support of Kenya’s extraordinary wildlife and communities. This incredible event continues to raise vital funds that innovate conservation efforts, protect critical landscapes and threatened species, and uplift livelihoods.”
The Lewa Safari Marathon has attracted more than 25,000 runners from over 40 countries over the years, including Kenyan former marathon world record holders Eliud Kipchoge, Paul Tergat, and Catherine Ndereba. Recognised by Runner’s World as one of the world’s top ten amateur races, the event continues to inspire global participation in conservation.
“For the past 26 years, we have proudly been part of the success story of the Lewa Safari Marathon. This noble initiative goes beyond sport, bringing people together to conserve our wildlife. As part of our continued commitment, we are supporting the event with KSh10 million, enabling Lewa to remain digitally empowered to protect wildlife more effectively.”
Jason Feng Shen, Huawei Kenya – Safaricom Key Account Director, said:
“Huawei is delighted to support the Lewa Safari Marathon for the 19th year. The marathon has made an awe-inspiring impact in preserving biodiversity while uplifting communities. We are proud to continue contributing innovative solutions that advance conservation efforts for future generations.”
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to more than 70 animal species, over 500 bird species, and some of Kenya’s highest wildlife densities, including the Big Five. Runners share the course with these iconic species, experiencing Kenya’s wildlife firsthand.
Funds raised also support a number of conservation organisations including Big Life Foundation, Borana Conservancy, Grevy’s Zebra Trust, Lamu Marine Conservation Trust, Lion Landscapes, Local Ocean Conservation, Maa Trust, Mountain Bongo Project, Mt Kenya Trust, Ngare Ndare Forest Trust, and Tsavo Trust.
