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The 2026 Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon has attracted a record KSh273 million in combined sponsorship and support, with organisers expecting more than 30,000 participants for the October 25 race.
Standard Chartered has provided KSh130 million, while other partners have committed KSh143 million through cash and in-kind contributions.
The 23rd edition will bring together runners from 102 nationalities, including more than 400 elite athletes.
The event has also recorded an increase in the number of sponsors, with 56 companies supporting this year’s race compared to 43 in 2025.
According to the organisers, the combined sponsorship value is 17 percent higher than last year’s KSh233 million and 58 percent above the KSh173 million secured in 2024.
The funds will support various aspects of the event, including runner safety, medical and welfare services, nutrition, hydration, technology, transport and logistics.
KWAL is the rights holder for the 21-kilometre Half Marathon after contributing KSh10 million to the event.
Tetra Pak has committed KSh13 million as a hydration sponsor, while Healthy U has provided KSh9.8 million in support of GU gels. ORS has contributed KSh8.6 million as an electrolyte sponsor, with Little Limited providing KSh7.8 million for accreditation.
Rohto, Blue Band, Unicaf, Reload and Coca-Cola are among the other major sponsors supporting the race.
The 2026 edition will also see Nike and Spiro make their debut as sponsors. Nike will serve as the official apparel sponsor, while Spiro will support the marathon’s entertainment activities.
Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon Local Organising Committee Chairman David Mwindi said the sponsorship would help improve the race experience while supporting programmes aimed at young people.
The marathon has programmes focusing on employability, entrepreneurship and skills development.
The race will start and finish at Uhuru Gardens, with participants taking part in the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10-kilometre Road Race, Wheelchair Race and Family Fun Run.
The event will also feature the CEO Challenge and Corporate Challenge.
Organisers say the marathon has attracted more than 345,000 participants since its inception and raised approximately KSh520 million for programmes supported through the Standard Chartered Foundation.
The programmes target young people, women and people with disabilities.
