Absa Dar City Marathon draws 5,000 runners for healthy road run  

DAR ES SALAAM: OVER 5,000 runners are expected to take part in the sixth edition of the Absa Dar City Marathon heading to its flag off  in Dar es Salaam on May 17, 2026.

The event comes as efforts to promote healthy living and combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) across the country.

Launched today, April 22, 2026, by Absa Bank Tanzania in partnership with The Runners Club, the marathon has grown into one of the city’s flagship sporting events, attracting participants from across Tanzania and beyond.

This year’s race will feature three categories — 21.1km (half marathon), 10km and 5km — with routes cutting through Dar es Salaam’s iconic landmarks, including the Askari Monument, Azania Front Lutheran Church, St. Joseph Cathedral, Tanzanite Bridge and Coco Beach.

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Organisers said the marathon is not just about competition, but also about driving a broader public health agenda. Proceeds from the event will support the NCD clinic at Mnazi Mmoja Hospital through the donation of medical equipment and reagents.

Absa Bank Tanzania Director of Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Mr Aaron Luhanga, said the event reflects the bank’s commitment to community impact.

“The Absa Dar City Marathon is more than a race — it is a platform that promotes wellness, unity and social good. We encourage all Tanzanians to embrace active lifestyles,” he said.

Race organiser and Vice President of The Runners Club, Mr Godphrey Mindu, noted that the marathon highlights the rapid growth of running culture in Tanzania.

“This event celebrates how communities are coming together through fitness. We are preparing to deliver a world-class experience for runners of all levels,” he said.

The Secretary General of the Dar es Salaam Athletics Association, Mr Felix Donald, said such events play a vital role in nurturing talent while instilling discipline and promoting health.

Participants ranging from elite athletes to recreational runners have been urged to register through official platforms, including Mixx by Yas and the event’s online portal.

Representatives from local running clubs described the marathon as a unifying platform that brings together runners nationwide to connect, build friendships and experience the city in a unique way.

The event has drawn support from several sponsors, including YAS Tanzania, EFM Radio and Garmin, with winners set to walk away with prize money and smart watches.

With registration now open, organisers say the countdown has begun for what promises to be one of the biggest fitness events on Tanzania’s calendar.