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Former Speaker of the National Assembly of Tanzania and President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Dr. Tulia Ackson, has confirmed that she is fully prepared to run the 42-kilometre race during the 10th edition of the Mbeya Betika Tulia Marathon scheduled for May 16, 2026.
Dr. Tulia, who is also the Member of Parliament for Uyole Constituency, made the remarks on May 15, 2026, during the opening of the track events held at Sokoine Stadium in Mbeya Region.
She said the first day of the competition featured races ranging from 100 metres to 1,500 metres, describing the event as unique in Tanzania for preparing athletes for international track competitions.
“The first day of these competitions involves races from 100 metres to 1,500 metres. These are unique races in the country that prepare athletes for international track competitions. Tomorrow there will be many more races,” said Dr. Tulia.
She noted that all runners were in good condition and had prepared well for the marathon, adding that several events had already been completed successfully.
Communication and Public Relations Officer for Tulia Trust, Joshua Mwakanolo, said this year’s track events had set a new participation record following a massive turnout compared to previous seasons.
He explained that although the marathon features different categories, the five-kilometre race has attracted the highest number of participants and broken previous participation records.
Mwakanolo added that Friday’s programme also included children’s races and jumping competitions, which received an impressive response from participants and spectators.
He said the main goal of the marathon is to nurture and discover talent among children and young people in athletics while promoting sports development in the country.
