More than 30,000 runners participating in this year’s Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon are set to benefit from enhanced medical coverage, additional hydration points, improved post-race recovery services and new sustainability initiatives as preparations intensify ahead of the October 25 race.
The Local Organising Committee said the measures are aimed at improving athlete safety and race-day operations while positioning the event among Africa’s leading road races operating to international standards.
Among the key improvements are 20 hydration stations along the route, roaming bicycle medics to enhance emergency response, dedicated muscle-relief stations and enhanced recovery services for participants.
Runners will also have access to downloadable digital finisher certificates following the race.
The organisers have further strengthened the marathon’s environmental programme, with every finisher set to receive a tree seedling.
In partnership with Nairobi City County, organisers are targeting the planting of 50,000 trees as part of a wider sustainability programme that will include waste segregation, recycling, reduced use of single-use plastics, responsible sourcing and impact measurement.
“This year, our focus is on raising the quality of the runner experience while strengthening the safety and sustainability standards behind the race. From medical response and hydration to recovery and environmental responsibility, every enhancement is intended to give participants a well-organised, world-class marathon experience,” said David Mwindi, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee.
Athletics Kenya President Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei said the marathon’s World Athletics Road Race Label status provides Kenyan and international athletes with a recognised platform to compete at an internationally acknowledged standard.
“The World Athletics Road Race Label affirms the organisers’ commitment to excellence and international race standards. It provides athletes with a recognised competitive platform and reinforces Kenya’s position as a global leader in distance running,” he said.
Beyond the competition, the marathon continues to support community development through the Standard Chartered Foundation, whose programmes seek to equip young people with skills, opportunities and pathways to employment and entrepreneurship.
The Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon will take place on October 25, 2026, along Nairobi’s Southern Bypass.
The event will feature seven race categories: the 42km Marathon, 21km Half Marathon, 21km Wheelchair Race, 10km Race, CEO Challenge and 5km Family Fun Run.
Organisers are also planning warm-up runs in different parts of the country in the coming weeks as participants step up their preparations for the race.
