NBC Dodoma Marathon raises Sh700m, Biteko praises organisers

Dar es Salaam. Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Dotto Biteko led an extraordinary crowd of over 12,000 participants in the NBC Dodoma Marathon held yesterday at Jamhuri Stadium in Dodoma.

 Organized by the National Bank of Commerce (NBC), the marathon raised an impressive Sh700 million, with funds dedicated to life-saving initiatives targeting maternal and child health.

This year’s event brought together runners from across Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, who demonstrated both athletic prowess and solidarity by participating in races ranging from 10 kilometres to the half and full marathons.

Dr Biteko, joined by various dignitaries and organizational leaders, participated in the 5km race and praised NBC for its commitment to community well-being, highlighting the growth of the marathon from just 1,500 participants in 2020 to the record-breaking 12,000 this year.

He stressed that the increase reflects a growing public awareness of the role physical activity plays in combating non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

“Statistics show that 33 percent of Tanzanians are obese, while 28 percent suffer from hypertension.

These numbers should alarm us into action. Exercise is no longer a lifestyle choice; it’s a medical necessity,” he declared.

Dr Biteko also called on the Dodoma regional leadership to officially designate the NBC Dodoma Marathon as a key tourism attraction, noting its potential to stimulate economic growth by drawing local and international visitors to the city.

Speaking earlier, Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Prof Palamagamba Kabudi applauded NBC’s pivotal role in the development of sports in the country.

 He noted that the growing prestige of the NBC Dodoma Marathon creates vital opportunities to scout and nurture athletes who can represent Tanzania in international events like the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games.

NBC Managing Director Theobald Sabi announced that Sh400m of the funds raised would be allocated to specific health initiatives.

 Dr Biteko and Sabi presented cheques at the ceremony, allocating Sh200m to the Benjamin Mkapa Foundation to support midwifery programs, Sh100m to the Ocean Road Cancer Institute to combat cervical cancer, and Sh100m to AMREF Health Africa for autism awareness and care.

“This success reflects NBC’s dedication to leading impactful community efforts,” said Sabi. 

He also acknowledged the contributions of all stakeholders and major sponsors, particularly GSM Group, along with Sanlam Insurance, Vodacom Tanzania, TBL, and Jubilee Allianz, whose support ensured the event’s success.

In the men’s marathon, Kenyan runner Moses Mengich took first place with a time of 2:12:56, followed closely by compatriot Kipyeko Naman at 2:13:25.

In the women’s category, Kenya’s Joy Kemuma claimed victory in 2:31:57, ahead of fellow Kenyan Jacinta Chepkoech, who clocked in at 2:33:56.

The top 10 marathon finishers received cash prizes, with 42 km winners taking home Sh11.5m each. Runners-up received Sh5m and additional shopping vouchers.

In men’s half marathon, Tanzanian Felix Simbu triumphed with a time of 1:32:45, followed by Boay Maganga at 1:33:25 while in women, Hamida Mussa won in 1:48:52, just ahead of Judith Cherono, who finished at 1:49:00.

Each winner in the half marathon category received Sh5.5 million, with second-place athletes earning Sh2.5 million.

A total of Sh82 million in cash prizes was awarded, with additional shopping vouchers distributed by event sponsors.

GSM Group awarded Sh4 million worth of vouchers for 10 km winners, while Skechers provided prizes for 21 km and 42 km champions.

A total of Sh82 million in prize money was awarded, complemented by product vouchers from sponsors. GSM Group provided Sh4 million worth of shopping vouchers for the 10 km winners, while Skechers rewarded top finishers in the 42 km and 21 km races.