Seven Kenyan athletes are set to represent the country at the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon following sponsorship by Sanlam Allianz Kenya as the prestigious race seeks recognition as an Abbott World Marathon Major.
The marathon, which is expected to attract over 27,000 participants from more than 102 countries, is undergoing what organizers describe as a critical “Evaluation Year” that could see it officially become the eighth World Marathon Major.
If successful, the Cape Town Marathon will join globally renowned races such as the London, Berlin, Boston and Tokyo marathons, marking a major milestone for African athletics.
According to organizers, more than 8,500 international runners and athletes from over 25 African countries are expected to participate in the race. All finishers will receive a provisional Abbott World Marathon Major star, which will later be upgraded once the marathon attains official major status.
To support African participation and talent development, SanlamAllianz launched the “African Champions Unite” campaign across the continent, bringing together elite and recreational runners through a series of competitive challenges.
In Kenya, the insurer partnered with running clubs and invited athletes from across the country to compete for a fully sponsored opportunity to participate in the marathon in Cape Town.
Sanlam Allianz Holdings Kenya PLC Group CEO Dr. Nyamemba Patrick Tumbo said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to promoting African excellence and empowering athletes.
“The Cape Town Marathon represents a celebration of unity, excellence and African pride. At SanlamAllianz Kenya, we stand firmly beside our athletes at every stage of their journey,” said Dr. Tumbo.
“Beyond sponsorships to professional elite runners, we designed the African Champions Unite Campaign to give back to our community by partnering with running clubs and inviting every Kenyan citizen to take part in the challenge, nurturing the dreams of Kenyan runners.”
Dr. Tumbo revealed that the company has sponsored seven elite Kenyan runners namely Japheth Kiplagat, James Munga, Fridah Chepkite Lodepa, Josephat Kipkoech, Dixon Marende, Meshack Shivina and Emily Chepkor.
“We wish them every success as they represent Kenya in the upcoming marathon,” he added.
The campaign, which ran from April 20 to May 10, 2026, was monitored through the Strava fitness platform and attracted participants from different parts of the country.
Winners received a comprehensive sponsorship package including return air tickets, accommodation, airport transfers, marathon entry fees, travel insurance, meals and official race kits.
Organizers also announced that the 2026 edition of the marathon will feature an increased winner’s prize purse of USD 35,000, up from USD 25,000 in 2025, reflecting the growing prestige and international profile of the race.
SanlamAllianz says the sponsorship initiative is part of its broader vision to create transformative opportunities and showcase Africa’s talent and sporting excellence on the global stage.
