Kenya’s Flagship Marathon Draws 30,000+ Runners, Boosts Economy by KSh 229 Million

22nd edition surpasses KSh 925 million raised for charity since 2003 and injects KSh 229 million into Kenya’s economy

Kenya’s Bernard Chepkwony and Hellen Chepkorir emerged champions in the men’s and women’s 42km races at the 22nd Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, clocking 2:11:01 and 2:27:17, respectively.

In the 21km half marathon, Joshua Kithuku won the men’s category in 1:02:35, while Fridah Rerimoi triumphed in the women’s category in 1:14:23. Shadrack Musyoka and Nelvin Jepkemboi took top honours in the 10km race, finishing in 29:01 and 33:04. In the 21km wheelchair category, John Wambua and Mary Tatu Jared claimed victory in 1:29:25 and 1:49:47, respectively.

This year’s marathon raised KSh 76 million for community programmes — the highest amount ever from a one-day sporting event in Kenya. Since its inception in 2003, the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon has raised over KSh 925 million for charity initiatives nationwide.

Record Participation and Global Reach

The 2025 edition attracted a record 30,602 runners from 92 nationalities, with participation increasing across all categories. Over 200 elite athletes competed, representing Kenya and other countries in the region.
Participation among persons with disabilities (PWDs) rose to 184, up from 146 in 2024. The 10km race saw the highest turnout with 12,855 participants, up from 10,276 last year.
The top participating nationalities were Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, China, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

The marathon featured six race categories:

• 42km men and women
• 21km men and women
• 10km men and women
• 21km wheelchair men and women
• 5km Family Fun Run
• Corporate Relay Challenge

Impact Beyond the Track

Speaking at the conclusion of the event, Kariuki Ngari, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Bank Kenya & Africa, said:

“The 22nd edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon has been remarkable, marked by a significant rise in elite runners, sponsors, and overall participation. With the support of over 40 sponsors and partners, we successfully delivered an exceptional and inclusive experience for all participants.”

He added that the bank, through its partners, had strengthened its inclusivity and sustainability efforts, including the provision of mothers’ rooms and nursing stations along the route and at the venue.

“Beyond the race itself, the true impact of the marathon lies in how its proceeds — now totalling KSh 925 million — have transformed lives across Kenya. Additionally, this year’s event injected KSh 229 million into the national economy,” he noted.

Global Standards and Clean Competition

To maintain the marathon’s integrity, Standard Chartered partnered with the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) to conduct doping tests on top finishers in the 42km, 21km, 10km, and wheelchair categories.

The marathon, which earned the World Athletics Road Race Label in 2023, remains Kenya’s only globally accredited road race, allowing participants to be ranked alongside elite athletes worldwide.

Championing Communities Through Futuremakers

All proceeds from the marathon go towards Standard Chartered’s Futuremakers initiative, which empowers youth — especially women and persons with disabilities — to learn, earn, and grow through education, employability, and entrepreneurship programmes.