NMB backs Pugu Marathon as thousands run for health and humanity
What you need to know:
- Both Tanzanians and foreigners come together for a noble cause, contributing to the development of the Pugu Pilgrimage Center and supporting hospitals and schools in need.
Dar es Salaam. More than 6,000 athletes participated in the 2025 Pugu Charity Marathon, an event sponsored by NMB Bank aimed at raising funds to support underprivileged communities and further develop the Pugu Pilgrimage Centre located in Dar es Salaam.
The annual marathon, now in its third year, is organized by the Catholic Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam and features various race distances, 2.5km, 5km, 10km, and 21km (half marathon), encouraging participants to improve their health while contributing to social causes.
Speaking during the event, Assistant Bishop Henri Mchamungu of the Catholic Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam said that the main goal of the marathon is to collect funds to elevate the Pugu Pilgrimage Centre to international standards and complete the construction of its administration building.
He added that part of the funds will also go towards strengthening the library at Pugu Secondary School, where the late Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, once taught.
Bishop Mchamungu called on stakeholders to continue supporting the initiative as it will be held annually.
Alfred Shao, Chief Officer for Government and the marathon’s main sponsor—praised the Archdiocese for its innovation and successful organization of the charity run.
He noted that the event has drawn participation from a broad range of supporters committed to helping vulnerable communities.
Mr Shao expressed his delight at seeing both Tanzanians and foreigners come together for a noble cause, contributing to the development of the Pugu Pilgrimage Center and supporting hospitals and schools in need.
The race saw Edson Mwakalukwa from Ukonga emerged as the winner of the men's 21km category, finishing in 1:26:19, followed by Joseph Mlewa from Msimbazi and Francis Ngao from Rinzudi-Goba. In the women's 21km category, Alafa Msalo from Zimamoto led the race with a time of 1:49:47, ahead of Happynes Temu and Heether Steele of Dar es Salaam.
In the 10km men’s race, Paschal Baloho of Mbezi Mwisho claimed victory with a time of 36:25:37, followed by Imlan Dadi of Mbezi and Dickson Mikirandi from Kibangu.
Christina George from Dar es Salaam won the women’s 10km race, clocking 50:15:06, while Zawadi Mwambi of Pwani and Joanita Alistides of Zingiziwa came second and third, respectively.
For the 5km men's category, Felix Magoti from Parokia Chuo finished first in 20:40:05, followed by Benedictor Tungaraza and Justin Shirima.
In the women’s 5km race, Veneranda Paul of Kibwegere led with a time of 32:47:15, with Evarista Kimaro from Msakuzi and Restusta Mtangira from Magomeni finishing close behind.
