Joy Kemuma crossed the finish line at Uhuru Park, winning the women’s elite race at the Nairobi City Marathon on 07 June 2026. Photo Credit: Chris Omollo | NNA News

NNA News - More than 17,000 runners from 75 countries gathered in Kenya's capital on Sunday as the Nairobi City Marathon continued to strengthen the country's position as Africa's leading destination for long-distance running. The fifth edition of the race attracted elite athletes, amateur runners and international visitors, highlighting the growing role of sport in promoting tourism, investment and global visibility for Kenya.

Held along the Nairobi Expressway, the marathon has evolved beyond a sporting event since its launch in 2022, becoming a platform for showcasing Kenya's internationally recognised athletics culture while supporting the country's broader economic and tourism ambitions. Kenyan athletes once again dominated the competition, with Enock Kipkemboi winning the men's full marathon in a time of 2:09:33 and Joy Kemuma claiming victory in the women's race in 2:27:43.

Organisers said participants competed across the full marathon, half marathon, 10-kilometre and five-kilometre categories under the theme "Feel the Pulse of Nairobi". The event also highlighted Nairobi's modern transport infrastructure, with runners competing along the Chinese-built Nairobi Expressway, one of the city's largest infrastructure projects.

A lady poses with the medal after the Nairobi City Marathon in Nairobi, Kenya, June 7, 2026. (Yang Guang)

Kenya remains synonymous with excellence in long-distance running, having produced generations of Olympic champions, world record holders and elite marathon runners. Events such as the Nairobi City Marathon continue to provide opportunities for emerging athletes to gain exposure while reinforcing the country's global reputation in athletics.

Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, said the marathon continues to play an important role in identifying future talent and promoting Kenya's sporting heritage."The Nairobi City Marathon is a very exceptional event, reaffirming Kenya as a global leader in long-distance racing. We keep on discovering new talents," Mvurya said.

People take part in the Nairobi City Marathon in Nairobi, Kenya, June 7, 2026. (Yang Guang)

Beyond competition, the marathon has become an important contributor to sports tourism, attracting international visitors and positioning Nairobi as a destination capable of hosting large-scale global events. As African cities increasingly invest in sports infrastructure and international competitions, Kenya's success in combining athletics, tourism and urban development is emerging as a model for leveraging sport as a driver of economic growth and continental influence.