The Lewa Safari Marathon has grown into one of Kenya’s most impactful conservation and community initiatives, raising more than Sh1.3 billion over the past 25 years.

The annual event, set to take place on June 28 at the Lewa Conservancy, has played a critical role in protecting endangered species and improving livelihoods.

Since its inception, Safaricom has been the event’s key sponsor, with Huawei also supporting its mission.

Speaking at the launch event on Wednesday at the Michael Joseph Centre, Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa underscored the company’s continued support.

“As both the marathon and Safaricom mark 25 years, we are proud to commit Sh10 million to this year’s edition. We will also host the Safaricom Karura Mini Run in May, a fundraising initiative we introduced last year with our partners to further support the Lewa Marathon,” said Ndegwa.

Huawei Kenya CEO Gao Fei expressed pride in the company’s long-standing involvement, now spanning 17 years.

“The conservancy is home to some of the rarest wildlife, and we know through our support and that of Safaricom, a difference has been made in preserving these iconic species for future generations and the surrounding communities,” he said.

The funds raised have contributed to the protection of endangered species, including the critically endangered mountain bongo, Grevy’s zebra, and black rhino.

The marathon has also supported the conservation of East Africa’s last remaining ‘super-tusker’ elephants, which are targeted by poachers for their massive tusks.

Beyond wildlife conservation, the marathon has played a crucial role in healthcare and education.

It has funded six hospitals and clinics, providing essential medical care to approximately 40,000 people annually.

More than 10,000 students have benefited from bursaries and school infrastructure projects made possible by the event’s proceeds.

On the marathon’s ability to bring people together for a common cause, Tusk CEO Nick Bubb said; “Through the event, we have raised funds that drive conservation efforts, protect threatened species, and uplift livelihoods."

"Celebrating this quarter-century milestone reminds us of the power of collective action and the impact we can achieve together for the future of Africa’s natural heritage.”

The marathon has also empowered women in local communities. A total of 724 women have been supported through beadwork and beekeeping initiatives, helping them achieve financial independence.

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy CEO Mike Watson described the marathon as a bridge between conservation and community development.

“At Lewa, we envision a future where all Kenyans value, protect, and benefit from wildlife, and this event continues to be a powerful force in making that vision a reality,” he said.

“As one of Kenya’s pioneering conservancies, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve, Lewa has seen remarkable growth in wildlife populations and biodiversity.”

Watson emphasized that the progress made would not have been possible without the collaboration of sponsors, conservation partners, and the surrounding communities.