News

The University of Botswana (UB) Marathon marked its fifth anniversary in style on Sunday (6th September 2026), bringing together thousands of runners, members of the University community, corporate partners and members of the public in a celebration that also formed part of the build-up to Botswana's 60th Independence Anniversary.

The successful fifth edition of the annual event underscored the remarkable growth of the UB Marathon since its inception in 2022, further cementing its place as one of the country's significant sporting events.

With runners competing across the 42.2km marathon, 21.1km half marathon, 10km and 5km categories, the event brought together participants from Botswana and beyond in a shared celebration of sport, health and national pride. Among the dignitaries who attended were Minister of Higher Education, Hon Prince Maele, Minister of Sport and Arts, Hon Jacob Kelebeng, UB Chancellor, Ms Tebelelo Mazile Seretse and UB Council Chairman, Dr Daniel Tau as well as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Higher Education, Professor Richard Tabulawa.

Speaking at the event, Hon Maele, said the marathon's fifth anniversary and Botswana's forthcoming Diamond Jubilee provided an opportunity to reflect on the country's development journey while looking towards the future.

Drawing parallels between long-distance running and nation-building, Hon Maele said the qualities required to complete a marathon, among them discipline, endurance and resilience, were equally important in Botswana's continued development.

He said as the country prepared to mark 60 years of independence, the milestone should not be regarded as a finish line but as the beginning of a new chapter requiring greater innovation, economic diversification and inclusive development.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of the marathon in promoting healthy lifestyles and raising awareness about non-communicable diseases. He said physical activity was essential to building a healthier and more productive population.

Beyond its sporting and health benefits, the UB Marathon continues to support the University of Botswana Foundation Graduate Scholarship Endowment Fund which assists academically deserving students to pursue postgraduate studies.

The initiative contributes towards developing future leaders, strengthening research and innovation and advancing the University's broader contribution to national development.

The growing popularity of the marathon also presents opportunities for sports tourism and supports efforts to position Gaborone as an increasingly attractive destination for major sporting and cultural events. From 3 600 in last year’s edition, this year saw a record 5 400 athletes participating in the marathon from different parts of the country and across the border.

Since its inception, the marathon has attracted growing support from the corporate sector, government, private businesses, alumni and other stakeholders, demonstrating the power of partnerships in delivering initiatives that benefit both the University and the wider community.

The University acknowledged its sponsors and partners especially Halfway Toyota for their continued support which has been instrumental in the growth of the marathon over the past five (5) years.

As UB celebrates this important milestone alongside Botswana's journey towards 60 years of independence, the success of this year's marathon demonstrated how sport can bring people together while advancing health, education, tourism and national development.