By GPC Sports Reporter
The Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon has secured a record Sh273 million in sponsorship and support ahead of its 23rd edition scheduled for October 25, 2026.
Standard Chartered has committed Sh130 million, while other sponsors have provided Sh143 million in cash and in-kind support, according to a statement issued on Tuesday.
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More than 30,000 runners from 102 nationalities, including over 400 elite athletes, are expected to take part in the race.
The number of sponsors has also risen from 43 in 2025 to 56 this year, representing a 30 per cent increase. The combined sponsorship value is 17 per cent higher than the Sh233 million raised last year and 58 per cent above the Sh173 million secured in 2024.
The increased funding will support race operations, including runner safety and welfare, nutrition and hydration, technology, transport and logistics, while also supporting programmes targeting young people.
“This record KES 273 million investment reflects the shared commitment of Standard Chartered and our sponsors to delivering a world-class marathon with lasting impact,” said David Mwindi, chairman of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon Local Organising Committee.
He said the support would also expand opportunities for young people through “employability, entrepreneurship and skills development”.
Standard Chartered’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing, Kenya and Africa, Joyce Kibe, said the marathon offered sponsors an opportunity to engage with participants while contributing to the city and surrounding communities.
“The marathon brings together more than 30,000 runners, clients, colleagues, communities and visitors from around the world,” Ms Kibe said.
“But numbers alone do not define a great runner experience. What matters is how people feel and what they remember.”
Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) has contributed Sh10 million as the 21km Half Marathon rights holder. Tetra Pak has committed Sh13 million towards hydration, while Healthy U is providing Sh9.8 million in support of GU gels.
Other major contributions include Sh8.6 million from ORS for electrolytes, Sh7.8 million from Little Limited for accreditation, Sh5.8 million from Rohto for relief stations, Sh5 million each from Blue Band and Unicaf, Sh4.5 million from Reload and Sh4.4 million from Coca-Cola.
Nike and Spiro are joining the marathon as new sponsors, contributing Sh5 million and Sh4 million respectively. Nike will serve as the official apparel sponsor, while Spiro will support entertainment.
KWAL Commercial Director Alice Mwalimo said the company’s sponsorship of the half marathon was aimed at supporting active lifestyles and community engagement.
“Our sponsorship of the 21 km Half Marathon reflects KWAL’s commitment to supporting active lifestyles and shared community experiences,” she said.
The race will start and finish at Uhuru Gardens and feature the 42km Full Marathon, 21km Half Marathon, 10km Road Race, 21km Wheelchair Race and 5km Family Fun Run. The programme will also include the CEO Challenge and Corporate Challenge.
Since its inception, the Nairobi Marathon has attracted more than 345,000 participants and raised approximately Sh520 million for programmes supported through the Standard Chartered Foundation.
The programmes focus on employability, entrepreneurship and skills development for young people, women and people with disabilities.
The marathon is organised in partnership with Nairobi City County, the Ministry of Sports, Athletics Kenya, KeNHA and KURA, and follows guidelines set by World Athletics, AIMS, Athletics Kenya and the Ministry of Health.
