By Jameson
Kenya’s most endangered species are set to receive stronger protection, while rural communities will benefit from improved livelihoods, thanks to funds raised through the 2026 Lewa Safari Marathon.
Speaking during the launch of the 2026 edition in Nairobi, organisers Tusk and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy said the event has raised more than KSh1.3 billion since its inception in 2000 to support conservation and community initiatives across the country.
They said programmes funded through the marathon have contributed to a doubling of Hawksbill turtle populations and more than doubling the number of young Grevy’s zebras. Rhino populations, including black rhinos, have increased by a quarter in one reserve, while endangered mountain Bongos are now better protected in their only natural habitats around Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Range.
Beyond wildlife conservation, the organisers said the marathon has delivered tangible social benefits, such as supporting more than 40,000 clinic visits, financing dozens of school programmes, and strengthening rural enterprises, including pastoralist initiatives and women-led businesses.
The 2026 edition is expected to attract hundreds of participants from across the globe, with organisers projecting more than KSh15 million in fundraising.
International registration is already open, while entries for Kenya and East Africa will open on March 27. The race will take place on June 27 at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy CEO Mike Watson said the marathon continues to deliver measurable conservation outcomes.
“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,” he said.
Chantal Migongo-Bake of Tusk described the event as a global movement that unites runners in support of conservation.
“The Lewa Safari Marathon is more than just a race. It is a running challenge with purpose that continues to raise vital funds, protect critical landscapes, and uplift livelihoods,” she said.
Set within the conservancy’s vast savannah, the marathon features a full marathon, half marathon, 10km race and a children’s run. Participants navigate diverse terrain, including riverbanks and acacia woodland, often alongside wildlife. Over the years, more than 25,000 runners from over 40 countries have taken part, including Kenyan legends Eliud Kipchoge, Paul Tergat and Catherine Ndereba. The race has also been ranked among the world’s top ten amateur events by Runner’s World.
Safaricom CEO Dr. Peter Ndegwa said the company will contribute KSh10 million towards this year’s event.
“For the past 26 years, we have proudly supported this initiative, which goes beyond sport to drive meaningful conservation action. We are equally committed to enabling conservation through connectivity, ensuring Lewa is digitally empowered to protect wildlife more effectively,” he said.
Huawei Kenya representative Jason Feng Shen said the company’s long-standing partnership aligns with its global Tech4All initiative, leveraging technology to address environmental challenges.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, hosts more than 70 mammal species and over 500 bird species, with one of the highest wildlife densities in Kenya. Runners often encounter iconic species, including members of the Big Five, along the course.
Funds raised by the marathon continue to support a wide network of Kenyan 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.
This year’s marathon is primarily sponsored by Safaricom PLC, which has supported the event since its inception, while Huawei has been a partner for over a decade. Other partners for 2026 include ICEA Lion, Tropical Heat, Safarilink, AMREF, Elewana, and Land & Life Foundation.
