By Eddah Waithaka
The Lewa Safari Marathon, one of the world’s most iconic conservation-focused sporting events, celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, continuing its legacy as a driving force for wildlife protection and community development across Kenya and beyond.
Organized by international conservation organization Tusk and Kenya’s Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, the marathon has raised over KSh 1.3 billion (US $9 million) since its inception in 2000, transforming lives and safeguarding endangered species.
With Safaricom as its main sponsor since the beginning and Huawei providing steadfast support for over 17 years, the event has inspired a wave of new partnerships in 2025.
Companies such as Access Bank, ICEA Lion, Highlands, AMREF, Elewana, Safarilink, Garda World, Tropical Heat, and African Originals have joined the cause, creating a robust financial backbone to sustain and expand critical conservation and community initiatives.
A Legacy of Conservation and Community Upliftment
The funds raised through the Lewa Safari Marathon have been instrumental in protecting critically endangered species, including Kenya’s mountain bongo, Grevy’s zebra, black rhino, and East Africa’s last remaining ‘super-tusker’ elephants.
The marathon has also supported local communities by financing six hospitals and clinics, providing essential healthcare to approximately 40,000 people annually.
Additionally, it has funded education bursaries, infrastructure for over 10,000 students, and empowered 724 women artisans through beadwork and beekeeping initiatives, fostering economic independence and sustainable livelihoods.
Corporate Commitment to a Greater Cause
Dr. Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom, emphasized the company’s long-standing commitment to the marathon.
“For 25 years, we have supported the Lewa Marathon, a cause that goes beyond conserving Lewa Conservancy to uplifting the surrounding communities, aligning perfectly with our purpose of transforming lives,” he said.
“As both the marathon and Safaricom mark 25 years in 2025, we are proud to commit KES 10 million to this year’s edition. Additionally, we will host the Safaricom Karura Mini Run in May, a fundraising initiative we introduced last year with our partners to further support the Lewa Marathon.”
Gao Fei, CEO of Huawei Kenya, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Huawei is delighted to have supported the Lewa Safari Marathon for the past 17 years. The conservancy is home to some of the rarest wildlife, and we know through our support and that of Safaricom, a difference has been made in preserving these iconic species for future generations as well as the surrounding communities.”
A Marathon with Purpose
Nick Bubb, Chief Executive of Tusk, highlighted the marathon’s unique role in uniting global runners for a shared mission.
“The Lewa Safari Marathon is more than just a race—it’s a marathon with purpose; a movement that has, for 25 years, united runners from around the world in support of Kenya’s extraordinary wildlife and communities,” he said.
“Through the event, we have raised vital funds that drive conservation efforts, protect threatened species, and uplift local livelihoods. Celebrating this quarter-century milestone reminds us of the power of collective action and the impact we can achieve together for the future of Africa’s natural heritage.”
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A Vision for the Future
Mike Watson, CEO of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, reflected on the marathon’s transformative impact. “The Lewa Safari Marathon embodies the deep connection between conservation and community,” he said.
“At Lewa, we envision a future where all Kenyans value, protect, and benefit from wildlife, and this event continues to be a powerful force in making that vision a reality. As one of Kenya’s pioneering conservancies, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve, Lewa has seen remarkable growth in wildlife populations and biodiversity.”
“Equally, our community programs have expanded to support thousands, reinforcing the essential role of conservation in securing sustainable livelihoods. None of this progress would be possible without the unwavering support of our runners, sponsors, conservation partners, and the neighboring communities we work with.”
A Record-Breaking Goal for 2025
As the Lewa Safari Marathon marks its 25th anniversary on Saturday, June 28, 2025, it aims to raise a record-breaking amount for conservation and community projects in a single year.
The event will once again unite runners, conservationists, local communities, and businesses in a shared mission to protect wildlife and uplift communities, proving the power of corporate leadership and collective action in creating lasting change.
Through the power of running, the Lewa Safari Marathon continues to connect people with nature, inspiring hope for a brighter, more sustainable future for both people and wildlife.
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