Residents of Mbeya Region are expected to take part in the Pre-Betika Mbeya Tulia Marathon scheduled for April 25, 2026, an event designed to promote physical exercise, strengthen community health, and encourage wider participation in sports.
The event has been organised by Tulia Trust through the Mbeya Jogging Club as part of preparations for the main Betika Mbeya Tulia Marathon, which will mark its 10th edition this year.
Speaking to journalists on April 23, 2026, Tulia Trust Sports Coordinator Lugano Mwangosi said the pre-marathon is meant to build momentum ahead of the main competition and introduce the official sponsor to the public.
He said the main marathon will be held on May 15 and 16 at Sokoine Stadium in Mbeya.
Mwangosi said the pre-event will be a community-based run starting from different areas of the city, including Kabwe, Mafiati, Sangu, Sinde, Ujenzi and Iyunga (Lift Valley), before concluding at Sokoine Stadium, where various sports activities will take place.
He added that the event will include a variety of fun and competitive activities such as 100-metre races, sack races, long jump, and an egg-and-spoon race designed to encourage participation from people of all ages.
According to the organisers, the initiative is part of a broader effort to promote regular physical exercise and strengthen sports culture in the community, particularly through monthly jogging activities.
Pre-Betika Mbeya Tulia Marathon Coordinator Lwiza John said preparations for the event are progressing well, noting that children’s sports activities have also been prioritised to help identify and nurture young sporting talent.
She said the inclusion of youth competitions is aimed at building a strong foundation for future national athletes.
Lwiza pointed to the achievements of Tanzania’s elite marathon runner Alphonce Simbu in international competitions such as the Boston Marathon as proof of the importance of investing in talent development from the grassroots level.
On his part, Mbeya Jogging Club Chairperson Gabriel Mwaisanila said jogging clubs in the region already organise monthly community runs, but the April edition carries special significance due to its link with the upcoming major marathon.
He urged residents from Mbeya and surrounding areas, including Mbalizi, to participate in large numbers, saying the event not only promotes health and fitness but also strengthens social unity and provides an opportunity to engage in various sporting activities.
