Summary
* With high stakes and a noble cause, the Bunge Marathon continues to blend competitive spirit with civic engagement, promoting health, unity, and national pride.
DAR ES SALAAM: A top cash prize of 6,000,000/- is up for grabs in this year’s Bunge Marathon, setting the stage for an exciting showdown as the event prepares to kick off in Dodoma this April.
Mr. Festo Sanga, Chairperson of the Bunge Marathon and Bunge Bonanza, announced that the third edition of the parliamentary-sponsored race is scheduled for April 18, 2026, at the Jamhuri Grounds in Dodoma Region.
Speaking to the media in Dar es Salaam on February 28, 2026, he confirmed that preparations are complete. He highlighted that the marathon aims to support President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s nationwide drive to promote sports and physical fitness.
“President Samia Suluhu Hassan has consistently championed the importance of exercise and backed our athletes, including national teams and clubs competing internationally,” Mr. Sanga stated.
“As Members of Parliament, we are committed to supporting her vision for sports development. We also recognize our role as representatives of the people, which is why we are engaging citizens through sports. Our slogan this year is: ‘Dear citizen, come run with your Member of Parliament,’” he added.
The event will feature a 21km half-marathon, a 10km race, and a 5km fun run—all designed to meet international standards.
Registration officially opened on February 28, 2026, with a fee of Sh40,000 payable through a dedicated online portal. The marathon is open to all Tanzanians.
Mr. Sanga noted that previous editions attracted over 5,000 participants, and organizers are aiming to surpass that figure this year by welcoming more local and international athletes.
Mr. Mohamed Soloka, Director of Silent Ocean Company—the event’s sponsor—pledged to provide modern, high-quality equipment for the race. He urged citizens to participate in large numbers, emphasizing that his company’s sponsorship stems from a belief in Parliament’s vital role in national development.
“Parliament is a pillar of our nation. We trust this partnership will be mutually beneficial, and we are confident this year’s Bunge Marathon will make history,” Mr. Soloka said.
Beyond the races, the event will also host a blood donation drive in collaboration with the National Blood Transfusion Program, supporting efforts to maintain safe and adequate blood supplies for those in need.
Prize Breakdown
5km Race: Winner – 2,000,000/-, Second – 1,000,000/-, Third – 500,000/- (for both men and women).
10km Race: Winner – 3,000,000/-; Second – 2,000,000/-; Third – 1,000,000/-
21km Half-Marathon: Winner – 6,000,000/-; Second – 3,000,000/-; Third – 1,500,000/-.
With high stakes and a noble cause, the Bunge Marathon continues to blend competitive spirit with civic engagement, promoting health, unity, and national pride.
