Over 7,900 runners from 65 countries registered for Kigali International Peace Marathon

By The Inspirer.

More than 7,900 participants from 65 countries have registered for the 2026 Kigali International Peace Marathon, organisers have confirmed, highlighting the continued international growth of one of Africa’s leading road races.

The 21st edition of the marathon is set for June 13–14 in Kigali and will bring together elite athletes and recreational runners for a two-day event centred on peace, unity and sportsmanship.

According to organisers, 7,903 runners had signed up by Friday morning, with participants drawn from across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Americas and the Middle East.

The race features three categories: a 42.1 km full marathon, a 21.09 km half marathon, and a 10 km “Run for Peace” fun run.

The full marathon will take place on Sunday alongside the half marathon, while the 10 km fun run will be held on Saturday.

Organisers said the event schedule has been adjusted to reduce the impact of Kigali’s mid-morning heat, which has affected runners in previous editions.

The full marathon is scheduled to start early in the morning, with the half marathon and fun run also set for early starts to improve race conditions for participants.

Registration data shows 307 athletes in the full marathon category, including 75 international runners and 214 Rwandans, along with other residents in the country.

The half marathon has attracted 1,584 participants, while the 10 km “Run for Peace” has recorded the highest participation with 3,140 runners.

All races will start and finish at Amahoro Stadium, which has become the traditional hub of the event.

Participants represent 65 countries, reflecting the marathon’s expanding global appeal and its positioning as both a sporting and peace-building platform.

Last year’s edition attracted more than 13,000 participants and maintained its World Athletics recognition status, further strengthening Kigali’s profile as a destination for international sporting events.