Telecommunications company Yas Tanzania has launched the sixth edition of the Yas Zanzibar International Marathon 2026, reinforcing its investment in sports, public health and sports tourism, with participant registration to be conducted digitally through the Mixx by Yas platform.
Returning as the title sponsor for the fifth consecutive year, Yas said this year's marathon is expected to attract more than 10,000 local and international runners, further positioning Zanzibar as one of Africa's emerging sports tourism destinations.
Speaking during the launch, Zanzibar's Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Dr Riziki Pembe Juma, said the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar would continue working with the private sector to promote sporting events that contribute to economic growth, tourism and healthier communities.
"The Yas Zanzibar International Marathon has grown beyond being an athletics competition. It is a platform that showcases Zanzibar to the world, promotes sports tourism, nurtures athletic talent and encourages people to embrace exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle," she said, adding that the government would continue supporting stakeholders investing in sports development and public health.
Yas Tanzania Chief Financial Officer Innocent Rwetabura said the company remains committed to using sport as a tool to unite communities, promote healthy living and support the expansion of sports tourism.
He said the marathon's growing participation reflects increasing public awareness of the importance of physical activity, particularly as Tanzania faces a rising burden of non-communicable diseases.
"The Yas Zanzibar International Marathon has become an important platform that brings together people from Tanzania and beyond, nurtures young talent and promotes Zanzibar as a leading sports tourism destination. As participation and visitor numbers continue to grow, so do the opportunities for the tourism industry, local businesses and Zanzibar's wider economy," Rwetabura said.
He added that all registration and payment processes will be handled digitally through the Mixx by Yas platform, offering participants a seamless and internationally aligned registration experience.
Beyond the marathon, Rwetabura said Yas continues to invest in Zanzibar's digital transformation by expanding its fibre broadband services alongside 4G and 5G network coverage to support the islands' growing digital economy.
This year's marathon will be held under the theme "Kasi Swadakta kwa Viwango," with organisers encouraging both Tanzanian and international runners to register early for the event, which is expected to draw thousands of athletes and visitors to Zanzibar while boosting tourism and local businesses.
