BY THE ARUSHA NEWS REPORTER
About 2,000 participants have so far confirmed for the Manyara Tanzanite Marathon 2026, as preparations gather pace for the charity race scheduled to take place in Babati, next Saturday, August 22.
The marathon, held under the theme “Hatua Moja, Okoa Maisha ya Mtoto” (One step, save a child’s life), aims to raise TZS 1.5 billion to improve healthcare services for premature babies in Manyara Region, according to Regional Commissioner (RC) Queen Sendiga.
Funds raised through the event will go towards the purchase of specialised medical equipment and the development of a modern facility dedicated to take care of premature and newborn babies, with Hanang District identified as the first area to benefit.
Manyara Regional Medical Officer (RMO), Dr Andrew Method, said the initiative was responding to a significant healthcare need in the region, particularly for babies born prematurely and requiring specialised medical attention.
“Many premature babies in Manyara are born weighing between 800 and 900 grammes,” Dr Method said.
He said Hanang had been prioritised because of the high number of premature births recorded in the district, with proceeds from the marathon expected to contribute towards establishing an improved facility for their treatment and care.
“We are grateful for the strong response. People from Manyara and outside the region have registered to take part,” Sendiga said, imploring good samaritans to join the charity marathon for a good cause.
Participants will compete across 5-kilometre, 10-kilometre, 21-kilometre and 42-kilometre categories, allowing both professional and recreational runners to take part.
Beside raising funds for child healthcare, the marathon is also expected to promote sports tourism and Manyara’s tourist attractions, with organisers seeking to use the event to showcase the region as a destination for both athletics and tourism.
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba is expected to be the chief guest at the August 22 event, according to the regional leadership.
