By Gift Briton
The Lewa Safari Marathon is setting the standard for charity-driven sporting events worldwide.
Since its first race in 2000, the Marathon has raised over $9 million which has been used to protect endangered species, build schools, and improve healthcare in rural communities across Kenya.
Lewa Marathon is a world-renowned annual charity-driven race organised by the international conservation organisation Tusk and Kenya’s Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, with Safaricom and Huawei as leading sponsors.
Because of this platform, the critically endangered mountain bongo—a rare antelope exclusively found in the mountains of central Kenya—was saved and prevented from extinction.
The black rhino and Grevy’s zebra, also critically endangered, have been given a second chance, thanks to the Lewa Marathon. Also, the “super-tusker” elephants, known for their enormous ivory tusks, are safer now than they had been in decades.
“The conservancy is home to some of the rarest wildlife,” said Gao Fei, CEO of Huawei Kenya, during the official launch of this year’s race. “We know through our support and that of Safaricom, a difference has been made in preserving these iconic species for future generations.”
“For 25 years, we have supported the Lewa Marathon, a cause that goes beyond conserving Lewa Conservancy to uplifting the surrounding communities. We are proud to commit KES 10 million to this year’s edition,” Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom said.
The marathon’s impact goes far beyond wildlife, to improving lives of nearby communities.
Over the years, the marathon has funded six hospitals and clinics, bringing healthcare to over 40,000 people annually. Families who once had to walk for miles to see a doctor can now get treatment close to home.
Education has also received a huge boost. More than 10,000 students have benefited from bursaries and better school facilities. Women in the community had been empowered through beadwork and beekeeping projects, allowing them to earn a living and support their families.
As Nick Bubb, CEO of Tusk describes, none of this would have been possible without the runners, sponsors, and conservation partners.
“The Lewa Safari Marathon is more than just a race—it is a marathon with purpose. For 25 years, we have raised vital funds that drive conservation efforts, protect threatened species, and uplift local livelihoods. This milestone reminds us of the power of collective action and the impact we can achieve together,” Bubb said.
Over 25,000 runners from 40 countries have taken part since 2000. They have run through the heart of Lewa conservancy, alongside elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
As the Marathon prepares to mark its 25th anniversary on Saturday 28 June 2025, it aims to raise a record-breaking amount for conservation and community projects in a single year.
“The Lewa Safari Marathon embodies the deep connection between conservation and community. We envision a future where all Kenyans value, protect, and benefit from wildlife. This event continues to be a powerful force in making that vision a reality,” said Mike Watson, CEO of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.
The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is a wildlife sanctuary located on the slopes of Mount Kenya. It is part of the UNESCO Mt. Kenya World Heritage Site and a Man & Biosphere Reserve, and has been green-listed by the IUCN for excellence in protected area management.
