Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Sports Reporter
PREPARATIONS for the 2026 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon are in full swing, with more than 5 000 runners from over 40 countries already confirmed for one of Africa’s most celebrated road races.
The marathon, scheduled for 5 July in the resort city of Victoria Falls, has grown into a major attraction on the continent’s sporting and tourism calendar, blending elite competition with the breathtaking backdrop of one of the world’s natural wonders.
Since its inception in 2006, the Econet Victoria Falls Marathon has evolved into a globally recognised event, drawing elite athletes, wellness enthusiasts and adventure seekers while showcasing Zimbabwe to an international audience.
Headline sponsor Econet Wireless Zimbabwe said extensive preparations were underway in collaboration with race organisers, local authorities, tourism stakeholders and emergency services to ensure a memorable experience for both participants and visitors.
Econet Group chief executive officer Douglas Mboweni said the event had grown beyond being just a sporting competition.
“The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon has earned a reputation as one of Africa’s most distinctive sporting events, combining world-class competition with one of the most spectacular natural wonders anywhere in the world,” said Mboweni.
“Every year, the event shines an international spotlight on Zimbabwe and demonstrates our ability to host major global events, while showcasing the beauty, warmth and hospitality of our people.”
Mboweni said the marathon continued to deliver significant economic benefits to the host destination through increased tourist arrivals, high hotel occupancy rates, demand for transport services and heightened business activity. He added that the event also promotes healthy lifestyles and encourages community participation. One of the race’s biggest attractions remains its unique route. Participants cross the historic Victoria Falls Bridge, taking in panoramic views of the Victoria Falls Gorge before running through sections of the national park, creating an unforgettable blend of endurance sport and natural beauty.
Econet deputy chief executive officer Roy Chimanikire said organisers were confident of delivering another successful edition of the event.
“Once again, we are looking forward to welcoming runners and visitors from across the country, the region and the rest of the world to Victoria Falls. Months of planning and co-ordination go into the preparations, and we are confident that this year’s marathon participants will have an exceptionally enjoyable experience both on and off the race course,” said Chimanikire.
He said the marathon had become one of Zimbabwe’s flagship annual events, strengthening the country’s reputation as a premier sporting and tourism destination.
Now in its 18th year, the marathon will feature several race categories, including the full marathon (42,2km), half marathon (21,1km), the 10,5km relay race, races for specially-abled athletes and the popular Family Fun Run, which attracts participants of all ages and fitness levels.
In a further indication of the event’s growing appeal, entries for all race categories were fully subscribed two months before race day, underlining the immense popularity of the marathon among both local and international participants.
