More than 300 participants gathered at Olduvai Gorge in Ngorongoro today for a five-kilometre fun run aimed at promoting one of the world’s most significant archaeological and natural heritage destinations.
The event, organised under the theme “Karibu Nyumbani” (Welcome Home), sought to market Olduvai and Laetoli as key tourism attractions linked to the origins of early human life while also highlighting Ngorongoro’s wider ecological and cultural importance.
Speaking on behalf of the Conservation Commissioner, Senior Assistant Conservation Commissioner for Tourism and Marketing, Mariam Kobelo, said the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA), in partnership with Cape to Cairo Marathon, organised the race to strengthen awareness of Tanzania’s heritage tourism assets.
She said Olduvai and Laetoli continue to attract global attention because of the scientific discoveries associated with the evolution of mankind.
“Ngorongoro is scientifically recognised as the home of human origins. It is also home to the annual wildebeest migration, more than 500 bird species and the Big Five,” she said.
Kobelo noted that the wildebeest migration, one of Africa’s leading wildlife spectacles, begins in the Ndutu area within the Ngorongoro ecosystem before animals move across the Serengeti plains.
She said the conservation area remains one of the few destinations in the world combining wildlife, archaeology, cultural heritage and landscapes within a single ecosystem.
“In many ways, Ngorongoro represents a collection of global wonders, which is why we continue inviting both local and international visitors through the campaign ‘Wonders Are Calling’,” she added.
Cape to Cairo Arusha International Marathon Director, Timothy Mdinka, said the event formed part of broader efforts to diversify tourism promotion through sports and destination-based experiences.
He said the initiative also aims to introduce new tourism products in Tanzania and across Africa by connecting sporting activities with heritage and conservation sites.
According to Mdinka, the Olduvai race is among activities leading to the Cape to Cairo Marathon scheduled for May 31, 2026.
The event attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including Karatu Runners, Amani Collection, CRDB Bank, UNDP, NHIF, and the Diplomatic and Tourism Police in Arusha.
