The ongoing anti-Finance Bill protests across Kenya have led to the cancellation of this year’s Lewa Safari Marathon. Lead sponsors, The Lewa Conservancy and Tusk Trust, decided to postpone the event, originally scheduled for Saturday, citing the current unrest in the country.
“This decision has been made in light of the current situation in the country,” the organisers stated. “We respect the democratic processes taking place and wish to be sensitive to the matter at hand, thus we have decided to postpone the event to next year.”
The Lewa Safari Marathon is a highly anticipated annual event that attracts athletes and conservation enthusiasts worldwide. It supports wildlife conservation and community development initiatives across Kenya.
The organisers acknowledged the disappointment this news may cause participants, partners, and supporters who were looking forward to the event. “We are committed to ensuring that the Lewa Safari Marathon returns stronger and better next year,” they assured. “The new dates for the marathon will be announced in due course, and all registrations will be carried forward to the rescheduled event.”
They extended their heartfelt gratitude to all partners, sponsors, and participants for their understanding and continued support. “We remain dedicated to our mission of conserving wildlife and supporting local communities, and we look forward to hosting you at the Lewa Safari Marathon in 2025,” they added.
Kenyans have been protesting against the Finance Bill, resulting in numerous casualties and injuries due to clashes with the police. President William Ruto has since conceded and stated he will not sign the bill into law.
Since its inception in 2000, the Lewa Marathon has raised over Sh1.3 billion for wildlife conservation. The event’s proceeds have significantly contributed to the protection of endangered species, including rhinos, Grevy’s zebras, mountain bongos, and super-tusker elephants. These efforts have helped protect one in seven of Kenya’s rhinos, one in four of its Grevy’s zebras, all of its mountain bongos, and its last few remaining super-tusker elephants.
Funds from the marathon have also supported various community development initiatives, including building classrooms, supporting teachers, providing textbooks, and funding meals at 27 schools, benefitting 10,000 children. Additionally, donations have funded six hospitals and clinics, providing essential medical services in remote areas and supporting the operations of 45 community conservancies.
Over the past 25 years, more than 25,000 runners from 40 countries have participated in the Lewa Safari Marathon. Recognized by Runner’s World as one of the top 10 amateur races globally, the event includes a 42km full marathon, a 21km half marathon, and shorter races for younger runners. Participants run through a wildlife reserve 200km north of Nairobi, amidst animals like elephants, rhinos, giraffes, and buffalo.
Corporate sponsors have been crucial to the marathon’s success. Safaricom, the main sponsor since its inception, has committed over Sh350 million to this cause, including Sh25 million to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy this year alone. Other sponsors include Huawei, Access Bank, ICEA Lion, Highlands, EABL, Amref, Safarilink, Seacom, Madison Insurance, and Nation Media Group.