The fifth edition of the FNB Kazungula Bridge Marathon is set to take place this Saturday, drawing attention from athletes and tourism stakeholders across the region and beyond. This growing sporting event continues to position itself as a key fixture on the Southern African athletics calendar, combining competition with a strong tourism appeal. Runners will traverse the scenic town of Kasane and ascend the iconic Kazungula Bridge, offering participants a rare opportunity to race across a major cross-border landmark. The event has steadily built a reputation for blending athletic challenge with breathtaking views and regional connectivity. With final preparations now complete, anticipation is high among participants and organizers alike.
According to marathon CEO and founder Obert Morgan, preparations are at their final stages, with athletes already arriving in Kasane ahead of race day. This early arrival reflects improved planning and coordination compared to previous years. Race packs have already been distributed to participants, marking a shift from past events where collections were done at the last minute. This operational improvement aims to enhance the overall runner experience and reduce logistical pressure on race day. The organizing team has focused on efficiency and professionalism to ensure a smooth and enjoyable event for all involved.
This year’s marathon has attracted a total of 3,500 registered runners, which represents a slight decline compared to previous editions. Morgan attributes this drop to ongoing financial constraints affecting government departments and parastatals, which have historically supported participation through employee entries and exhibitions. Despite this, the event has maintained strong international appeal, with athletes arriving from countries such as Kenya, Zimbabwe, Namibia and South Africa. Additional participants are expected from regions including the United States, Asia and Europe, reinforcing the marathon’s global reach. This diverse participation base continues to strengthen the event’s profile and competitiveness.
Beyond sport, the marathon plays a critical role in stimulating the local economy of the Chobe region. Hotels and lodges in the area typically reach full capacity during marathon weekend, driven by the influx of athletes, support teams and spectators. Local businesses benefit directly from increased demand for accommodation, food and transport services. Morgan emphasized that the event acts as a reliable revenue generator, creating opportunities for small and medium enterprises to thrive. This economic impact has made the marathon an important annual event for the region’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
The 2026 edition introduces notable changes to race categories aimed at improving logistics and enhancing runner experience. The traditional 5km race has been extended to 8km, allowing participants to cross the Kazungula Bridge and fully experience its scale and significance. Additionally, a 15km race has been introduced, replacing the previous 10km distance to streamline event management and reduce complexity. These adjustments reflect a strategic approach to balancing variety with operational efficiency. Runners can expect well-marked routes, thanks to the involvement of Botswana Athletics Association as technical partners.
Safety remains a top priority for the organizers, particularly given the unique environment of the Chobe area. The Department of Wildlife and National Parks will deploy officers along the route to monitor wildlife activity and ensure runner safety throughout the race. This measure addresses the region’s natural risks while preserving the appeal of racing in a wildlife-rich setting. Weather conditions are expected to be favorable, with forecasts indicating mild temperatures, scattered thundershowers and clear skies. These conditions are likely to support strong performances while maintaining comfort for participants.
To commemorate the five-year milestone, organizers have planned a gala dinner on Saturday evening, bringing together athletes, sponsors and stakeholders to celebrate the marathon’s growth. However, prize money for this year’s race has been reduced due to broader economic challenges. Despite this, the focus remains on delivering a high-quality event experience and maintaining the marathon’s reputation. Lessons from previous editions have also been applied, including improved route marking to prevent incidents like those in 2024 where some runners veered off course.
The FNB Kazungula Bridge Marathon continues to evolve as a flagship sporting and tourism event in Botswana, balancing competition, community impact and international appeal. Its ability to attract diverse participants while boosting local economies highlights its long-term value. With improved logistics, enhanced safety measures and strategic race adjustments, the 2026 edition is poised to deliver a seamless and memorable experience. As runners take on the challenge this Saturday, the marathon reinforces its role as both a sporting highlight and a driver of regional growth.
