The Tanzania Public Bar Association (TPBA) has recorded an overwhelming public response ahead of the upcoming Wakili Marathon, with citizens from across the country continuing to register in large numbers for the event scheduled to take place on May 31, 2026, in Dodoma.
Speaking during a press briefing at the TFF Hall in Ilala, Dar es Salaam, TPBA Chairperson Addo November said the marathon has generated significant excitement due to its focus on promoting both healthy living and public awareness of legal rights and legal aid services.
According to Addo, registration numbers have increased steadily in recent days, reflecting growing nationwide interest in the event, which is expected to bring together legal professionals, government leaders, athletes and members of the public.
“The response has been very encouraging. Citizens from different parts of the country are continuing to register in large numbers, and we expect Dodoma to receive a huge number of participants during the marathon,” he said.
He explained that participants paying the registration fee of TZS 40,000 will receive a marathon package containing a T-shirt, bib number, string bag and a medal after completing the race.
Those paying TZS 150,000 will receive the same package together with a tracksuit.
Addo noted that government lawyers play a key role in supporting the country’s legal system alongside private advocates, adding that the marathon will also serve as an opportunity to strengthen unity within the legal fraternity while encouraging citizens to maintain healthy lifestyles.
“We want citizens to participate fully because this is not only a sporting event but also a platform for bringing legal services closer to the people,” he said.
The marathon is expected to attract several senior government leaders, including the Attorney General, Hamza Johari.
Beyond sports, the event is also aimed at promoting legal awareness among Tanzanians. Addo said government lawyers remain committed to expanding access to justice following their participation in the nationwide Mama Samia Legal Aid Campaign, which reached more than four million citizens.
He said the campaign revealed that marriage disputes and land conflicts remain among the most common legal challenges affecting citizens across the country.
This year’s Wakili Marathon is also expected to feature some of Tanzania’s top athletics figures, including internationally recognised long-distance runner Alphonce Felix Simbu, who is set to participate in the event.
Former marathon legend Juma Ikangaa has meanwhile encouraged women to participate in large numbers, saying women have strong potential to excel in athletics competitions.
Ikangaa said such events are important in identifying and nurturing future sports talent, adding that Tanzania could produce many more athletes of Simbu’s calibre through regular marathon competitions.
He also stressed that history has already shown women can succeed in athletics, saying there should be no barriers preventing them from taking part in major sporting events.
