NTUNGAMO—The hills of Rwashamire came alive with pounding feet, fierce competition, and roaring applause as the much-anticipated Coffee Marathon unfolded at the picturesque Africa Coffee Park over the weekend. With a whopping Shs 116 million in prize money on the line, Uganda’s elite long-distance runners turned out in full force — but it was the Sebei Sub-Region that stole the show, sweeping nearly every major category and cementing its status as the powerhouse of Ugandan athletics.
Flagged off by Commonwealth medalist Docus Nzikuru, the event wasn’t just a race — it was a celebration of endurance, heritage, and Uganda’s proud coffee culture. From the grueling 42-kilometer full marathon to the 21-kilometer half and the 10-kilometer sprint, the Sebei athletes surged ahead, dominating with poise and power.
Masai, Chelengat Shine in Full Marathon Glory
In the men’s 42-kilometer main event, it was Isaac Masai who crossed the finish line first, arms raised to a thunderous ovation, clinching the gold medal and Shs 10 million. Hot on his heels was Isaac Kibet, who earned silver and Shs 7.5 million, while Alex Chesuro rounded out the podium with bronze and Shs 5 million.
The women’s race was equally electrifying. Merceiline Chelengat, running with precision and heart, surged to the top and claimed gold and Shs 10 million, followed closely by Emily Chebet with silver (Shs 7.5 million) and Peruth Chemusto in third, earning Shs 5 million and bronze.
Chebet, Zena Take Charge in Half Marathon
The 21-kilometer half marathon saw more Sebei dominance. In the men’s division, Abel Chebet claimed gold and Shs 5 million, proving too strong for Mark Kiptoo who settled for silver and Shs 3 million, while Peter Akwech secured bronze and Shs 2 million.
The women’s half marathon was led by Rachel Chebet Zena, who outran her challengers to secure gold and Shs 5 million. Esther Chekwemoi followed in second with Shs 3 million, while Saibi Chebet came third, pocketing Shs 2 million.
Young Talent Lights Up 10K Race
In the 10-kilometer category, fresh faces lit up the course. Sailas Rotich powered through to win the men’s race, while Kerine Cherop dominated the women’s side. Both walked away with gold medals and Shs 2 million each, signaling the arrival of Uganda’s next generation of distance running stars.
Tayebwa: “This is a celebration of resilience”
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, the event’s chief guest, praised the marathon for its dual purpose — promoting sports and celebrating Uganda’s rich coffee heritage.
“This is not just a race, it’s a celebration of Ugandan talent and resilience,” Tayebwa told attendees. “We are proud of the runners who continue to put Uganda on the global athletics map.”
He also emphasized the broader economic vision behind the initiative, noting Uganda’s ambitious goal to grow its economy from $50 billion to $530 billion by 2040.
“Agriculture, tourism, minerals, science, and innovation — these are the sectors that will get us there,” he added. “Events like this bring all these pillars together, combining culture, commerce, and youth empowerment.”
With the Africa Coffee Park as a stunning backdrop and Sebei’s runners blazing through every challenge, this year’s Coffee Marathon was more than a sporting event — it was a bold statement of potential, pride, and perseverance.
Uganda may grow its coffee, but clearly, it also grows champions.