The event, launched in Zanzibar on Thursday, will once again have telecommunications company Yas Tanzania as the title sponsor for the fifth consecutive year, underlining the firm's continued investment in sports development, healthy living and sports tourism
Dar es Salaam. The sixth edition of the Yas Zanzibar International Marathon has officially been launched, with organisers confirming that the race will take place on October 25, as they target more than 10,000 local and international participants.
The event, launched in Zanzibar on Thursday, will once again have telecommunications company Yas Tanzania as the title sponsor for the fifth consecutive year, underlining the firm's continued investment in sports development, healthy living and sports tourism.
This year's edition will also introduce a fully digital registration and payment system through the Mixx by Yas platform, aimed at providing participants with a seamless registration experience.
Launching the marathon, Zanzibar's minister for information, culture, arts, and sports, Dr Riziki Pembe Juma, said the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar remains committed to working with the private sector to organize sporting events that stimulate economic growth, boost tourism, and promote healthier lifestyles.
"The Yas Zanzibar International Marathon has evolved beyond an athletics competition. It has become a platform that showcases Zanzibar to the world, promotes sports tourism, nurtures athletic talent and encourages people to embrace physical exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle," said Dr Pembe.
She said the government would continue supporting initiatives that contribute to sports development while creating economic opportunities for local communities.
Yas Tanzania Chief Financial Officer Innocent Rwetabura said the company remains committed to using sport as a tool to unite communities, encourage active lifestyles, and position Zanzibar as one of Africa's leading sports tourism destinations.
"The growing number of participants each year demonstrates increasing awareness of the importance of physical activity, especially as Tanzania continues to address the rise in non-communicable diseases," he said.
Rwetabura added that the marathon has become an important platform for nurturing young talent while generating business opportunities for the tourism sector, hospitality industry, and other local enterprises as visitor numbers continue to rise.
He also noted that Yas continues to strengthen Zanzibar's digital economy through the expansion of fiber broadband services and 4G and 5G networks across the islands.
The 2026 edition will be held under the theme "Kasi Swadakta kwa Viwango," with organizers encouraging Tanzanians and international runners to register early for what is expected to be one of East Africa's biggest road races.
