By Shadrack Nyakoe
The 21″ edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon has received over KES 173 million in support from sponsors ahead of the race, which is set for October 27, 2024, at Uhuru Gardens.
This substantial support, comprising both cash and in-kind contributions, promises to enhance the experience for participants and further empower community initiatives.
Since its inception, the marathon has welcomed over 300,000 runners, cementing its status as one of the region’s premier athletic events.
“We are excited to collaborate with our sponsors to promote community engagement, boost local economic growth and empower youth through FutureMakers initiative by Standard Chartered. Proceeds from the marathon help young people especially women and individuals with disabilities-learn, earn, and grow,” said Peter Gitau, Chair of the Local Organising Committee, Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.
This year, the marathon has attracted more than 40 sponsors and partners, an increase from 30 last year, reflecting a collective commitment to transforming lives, nurturing talent, and fostering sports globally.
Standard Chartered has made a significant contribution of KES 100 million towards the event. Prudential, one of the world’s most trusted insurance companies, has also stepped in with KES 10 million as the official sponsor for the 5KM Family Fun Run in cash and in-kind support, playing a crucial role in ensuring comprehensive insurance coverage for all participants.
“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 in launching their international careers but also to inspire families to embrace a culture of fitness and well-being,” said Gwen Kinisu, CEO, Prudential.
Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon aims to promote Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) both within and beyond the event. It is the only marathon in the country that has a special category for persons with disability. Light for the World supported with evaluation to ensure the marathon is inclusive. CBM Christian Blind Mission, a leader in disability inclusion, will also ensure essential support for participants with disabilities while for participating mothers. Kisskids will set up mothers’ rooms along the route and venue.
“Disability inclusion at the Standard Chartered Marathon is a critical step toward building an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of ability, can participate fully. By ensuring that the marathon is accessible to persons with disabilities, we are not only promoting equal opportunities in sports but also raising awareness of the importance of inclusivity in all aspects of life.” said Daniel Oloo, Interim Country Director, Light for World Kenya.
Additional sponsors contributing cash support include G4S, MSF-Doctors without Borders, La Roche (a leading producer of dermatological skincare products), Bata, Carrefour Supermarkets, Healthy U and Heineken 0.0. Refreshments will be provided by Coca-Cola and Minute Maid, while Kinderville Junior School will sponsor the Kiddie Zone. Hydration partners include Tetra Pak, Reload, and ORS with AAR Healthcare, Aga Khan University Hospital, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and AMREF coming onboard to provide emergency medical support and post-race care for all participants.
CBM Christian Blind Mission, a leader in disability inclusion, will ensure essential support for participants with disabilities.
PTG has come onboard as the offer kit delivery services to all the corporate participants, Little Africa will offer logistics support by offering shuttling services for participants to and from the venue while NTT Data will guarantee reliable internet connectivity throughout the event.
Additionally, sports tourism initiatives will be spearheaded by Magical Kenya, Kenya Wildlife Services, Bonfire Adventures and Kenya Airways the official flight partner.
Efforts focused on sustainability will involve organisations such as Unicaf, WWF, and the Peace and Cultural Heritage Alliance, Takataka as Hurricane Global will manage cleaning services.
“We are truly honored to partner with the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon. This collaboration provides an invaluable platform to promote Kenya as a bucket-list destination for runners, fans, and sports tourists from around the world. We believe it will significantly boost visitor numbers for both the race and our country as a whole,” said June Chepkemei, CEO, Kenya Tourism Board.
Hosted by Nairobi County and the Uhuru Gardens National Monument and Museum, this year’s marathon expects over 25,000 participants.
The event will feature various races, including the 42km, 21km, and 10km distances, alongside a popular 5km Family Run and similar competitions for persons with disabilities.
Runners will enjoy fresh fruit along the route provided by Greenspoon and Tawi, while relief stations will feature products from Rohto along the course with products such as Deep Heat and Deep Freeze.
LG-OPALNET will provide screens and speakers for route entertainment. Long-standing partners Subaru and G4S will offer lead car and security services, respectively.
Registration for the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon is open at www.nairobimarathon.com for KES 2,000 and will close by the 13 October 2024.