Na Matukio Daima Media
The official registration for the fifth season of the Great Ruaha Marathon (GRUMA) 2026 has been launched in grand style in Dar es Salaam, with participants now able to register through the website www.greatruahamarathon.co.tz
The highly attractive marathon is scheduled to take place on July 4, 2026, within Ruaha National Park. The internationally recognized event is expected to attract a larger number of stakeholders and participants than ever before.
Speaking during a press conference held alongside the launch, Treasury Registrar Nehemia Mchechu, who is also the patron of the marathon, urged Tanzanians to turn out in large numbers to participate, emphasizing that the event presents significant economic opportunities. He was accompanied by the marathon’s ambassador, Cosato Chumi.
Mchechu noted that the event continues to serve as a unique platform that brings together sports, tourism, environmental conservation, and health. Its objectives include promoting tourism in the Southern Circuit, encouraging environmental conservation—particularly the protection of water sources of the Great Ruaha River—and strengthening unity among citizens and development stakeholders.
He added that the marathon is a major economic catalyst, especially for investors, highlighting that the government under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan has continued to improve the investment climate by strengthening infrastructure to attract more tourists.
“These races are a unique event that should be promoted globally. It is rare to see humans and wildlife sharing the same environment peacefully in their natural habitat,” he said.
Mchechu also commended the organizing committee for their continued efforts in promoting Tanzania’s tourism and called on TANAPA, institutions, and organizations to actively participate, noting that the event supports national efforts to boost tourism and increase national revenue.
He further explained that, beyond the marathon itself, organizers have prepared additional unique tourist attractions such as sport fishing, game drives, and nature walks.
He praised the collaboration between organizers and media outlets, especially those from the Iringa region, emphasizing their role in promoting the event using local language and cultural context.
Marathon ambassador Cosato Chumi also applauded the organizers’ efforts and encouraged citizens to motivate one another to participate.
The President and Director of Sustainable Youth Development Partnership (SYDP), Edward Athanas Millinga, stated that this year’s event is expected to attract even more international participants.
He explained that GRUMA is an annual event organized by SYDP aimed at bringing together athletes, environmental advocates, and communities to promote environmental conservation, empower youth, and support sustainable tourism.
“The marathon plays a crucial role in protecting the Great Ruaha River and the ecosystem of Ruaha National Park, which is vital for Tanzania’s biodiversity, wildlife, and the well-being of surrounding communities,” he said.
Through GRUMA, organizers aim to raise public awareness on environmental conservation, mobilize resources for environmental projects, promote health through sports, and empower youth through participation and leadership opportunities.
The event also contributes to positioning Tanzania, particularly the Southern Circuit, as a hub for eco-tourism and sports tourism.
Event coordinator Hamim Kilahama confirmed that preparations are progressing well and that a large turnout of stakeholders is expected.
He described the event as an important platform for uniting efforts in promoting environmental conservation, community development, and sports in the country.
“The Great Ruaha Marathon is not just an event—it is a unique celebration of tourism, environment, and health. We welcome Tanzanians and international visitors to come and witness and participate in this historic occasion,” he said.
Explaining what makes the marathon unique, Kilahama highlighted that it takes place within a national park, making it one of the few races in the world held in the midst of wildlife.
As global attention increasingly turns to Tanzania as an emerging hub for eco-friendly sporting events, Iringa is positioning itself on the world map as a host of one of the most significant tourism and sporting events.
Participants are encouraged to confirm their registration by calling +255 673 112 753 or through the official website. Updates are also available on Instagram and TikTok under the name Great Ruaha Marathon, or you can register via the website www.greatruahamarathon.co.tz
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