KES 273 million jackpot from marathon sponsors to fund women, youths

The Nairobi Standard Chartered Marathon has emerged as a growing corporate fundraising platform, with sponsorship rising by 17 per cent to 56 companies, unlocking about KES 273 million for programmes targeting women, young people and persons with disabilities.

The latest sponsorship figures underline the expanding role of the annual race beyond athletics, with businesses increasingly backing the event as a vehicle for social investment and community development.

Standard Chartered Bank Head of Corporate Affairs Joyce Kibe said the money raised through this year’s sponsorship will be channelled to the Standard Chartered Foundation, which supports initiatives aimed at improving opportunities for vulnerable and underserved groups.

Kibe said the increase in the number of sponsors from last year demonstrates growing corporate confidence in the marathon and its wider social impact.

“The marathon has attracted 56 sponsors this year, a 17 per cent increase from 2025, raising about KES 273 million that will be channelled to the Standard Chartered Foundation towards supporting women, the youth and persons with disabilities,” she said.

She urged more people to register for the race, saying participation would provide an opportunity for Kenyans to contribute to initiatives designed to transform lives while taking part in the sporting event.

The growing corporate backing is also placing greater emphasis on the quality and organisation of the marathon.

David Mwindi, Chairman of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon Local Organising Committee, said organisers were keen to deliver a professionally planned race that meets the expectations of participants and sponsors.

“When it comes to Nairobi Standard Chartered Marathon, I think it's about the quality of products that we come up with in terms of how we ensure that the race is well-planned,” Mwindi said.

The event has also attracted support from corporate partners, among them Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL), whose Commercial Director Alice Mwalimo attended the event.

With 56 sponsors now attached to the marathon, organisers are positioning the race as an increasingly important platform where sport, corporate participation and social investment converge.

The organisers are calling on more runners to register, with increased participation expected to deepen the event’s fundraising and community impact.