Nairobi Standard Chartered Marathon sponsorship rises 17% to unlock KSh273m for vulnerable groups

Fifty-six companies backed this year’s race, channelling funds to women, youth and persons with disabilities through the Standard Chartered Foundation

By James Murimi

Corporate backing for the Nairobi Standard Chartered Marathon has grown sharply, with sponsorship rising 17 per cent to 56 companies and unlocking approximately KSh273 million for programmes targeting women, young people and persons with disabilities.

The figures mark a significant expansion in the marathon’s role beyond athletics, with businesses increasingly treating the annual race as a vehicle for structured social investment.

Standard Chartered Bank Head of Corporate Affairs Joyce Kibe said yesterday that funds raised through this year’s sponsorship would be directed to the Standard Chartered Foundation, which supports initiatives aimed at improving opportunities for underserved groups.

“The marathon has attracted 56 sponsors this year, a 17 per cent increase from 2025, raising about KSh273 million that will be channelled to the Standard Chartered Foundation towards supporting women, youth and persons with disabilities,” Kibe said.

David Mwindi, chairman of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon Local Organising Committee, said organisers were focused on delivering a professionally run event that meets the expectations of both participants and sponsors.

“When it comes to the Nairobi Standard Chartered Marathon, it is about the quality of the product — ensuring that the race is well planned,” Mwindi said.

Kenya Wine Agencies Limited Commercial Director Alice Mwalimo was among corporate representatives at yesterday’s briefing.

With 56 sponsors now attached to the event, the marathon has positioned itself as one of Nairobi’s more significant intersections of sport, corporate engagement and social investment. Registration for this year’s race remains open.

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