By GPC Reporter

More than 30,000 runners are expected to take part in the 2026 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.

Organisers are promising a safer, more environmentally friendly and better-supported race experience when the event is held on October 25.

The organisers have introduced a raft of measures ahead of the 25th October race, including expanded medical cover, additional hydration points, improved post-race recovery services and new sustainability initiatives.

Among the key changes will be 20 hydration stations along the route, roaming bicycle medics to facilitate faster emergency response, dedicated muscle relief stations and enhanced recovery support for runners.

Participants who complete the race will also receive downloadable digital finisher certificates, while every finisher will be given a tree seedling as part of an ambitious environmental campaign targeting the planting of 50,000 trees in partnership with Nairobi City County.

David Mwindi, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, said the organisers were determined to make the marathon more than just a competitive race.

“This year, our focus is on raising the quality of the runner experience while strengthening the safety and sustainability standards behind the race.”

Mwindi said the improvements, covering everything from medical response and hydration to recovery and environmental responsibility, were aimed at delivering “a well-organised, world-class marathon experience.”

The sustainability programme will also include waste segregation, recycling, reduced reliance on single-use plastics, responsible sourcing and impact measurement.

The marathon’s organisers say the enhanced measures are part of efforts to position the event among Africa’s leading road races while operating in line with international standards.

Athletics Kenya President Jackson Tuwei said the event’s World Athletics Road Race Label status would further strengthen its appeal to both Kenyan and international athletes.

“The World Athletics Road Race Label affirms the organisers’ commitment to excellence and international race standards,” Tuwei said.

He added that the status provides athletes with a recognised competitive platform and “reinforces Kenya’s position as a global leader in distance running.”

Beyond athletics and environmental conservation, the marathon will continue to support community initiatives through the Standard Chartered Foundation, whose programmes focus on equipping young people with skills, opportunities and pathways to employment and entrepreneurship.

The 2026 marathon will take place along Nairobi’s Southern Bypass and will feature seven categories: the 42km Marathon, 21km Half Marathon, 21km Wheelchair Race, 10km Race, CEO Challenge and 5km Family Fun Run.

Organisers will also conduct warm-up runs across the country in the coming weeks as participants step up preparations for the October showdown.

With thousands of runners expected to converge on the capital, this year’s race is shaping up not only as a test of endurance, but also as a major push towards safer sporting events and a greener Nairobi.