THE sixth edition of the highly anticipated NBC Dodoma Marathon, scheduled for July 27 in Dodoma City, was officially launched on Wednesday in Dar es Salaam.

This year, the main sponsor aims to set a new participation record by attracting 12,000 runners, a significant increase from last year’s 8,000 participants. This would position the event as one of the largest marathons in Tanzania.

The announcement was made during a vibrant launch event attended by key stakeholders. Speaking at the event, Rayson Foya, chief financial officer of the bank, outlined the marathon’s key objectives for 2024.

The sponsor is targeting to raise TZS 700 million, which will go toward several health initiatives. These include supporting the fight against cervical cancer, expanding midwifery training to 200 midwives, and launching a new educational sponsorship program for 100 nurses specializing in autism care for children across Tanzania.

The launch drew participation from major partners, including representatives from the Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI), the Benjamin Mkapa Foundation, and Amref Health Africa - organizations that will benefit directly from the funds raised.

Representing the bank’s managing director, Theobald Sabi, Foya expressed pride in the marathon’s achievements over the past five years. “To date, we have raised over TZS 1 billion, with more than 80 percent of the funds dedicated to fighting cervical cancer in partnership with ORCI,” Foya said.

He noted that the initiative has already reached approximately 200,000 women, with over 3,000 receiving treatment. Importantly, 80 women have achieved full recovery and returned to their families. 

Additionally, 100 midwives have been supported through previous funds, with plans to double that number this year. Foya also extended heartfelt thanks to the event’s sponsors, including Sanlam Insurance, GSM Group, Vodacom Tanzania, Jubilee Allianz Insurance, Strategis Insurance, and GardaWorld, for their continued support.

Dr. Crispin Kahesa, director of preventive services at ORCI, emphasized the profound impact of the marathon's fundraising over the years. “We have reached nearly 200,000 women across 78 districts, empowering over 250 service providers to improve screening and patient care,” Dr. Kahesa said.

He highlighted the ongoing need for early screening, pointing out that Tanzania records around 42,000 new cancer cases annually, with 14,000 being cervical cancer - a condition often detected too late.

“Over 90 percent of women are diagnosed at advanced stages, leading to poor outcomes. The marathon helps raise awareness and promotes early screening, especially in rural areas. This year’s funds could help reach an additional 20,000 women,” he added.

Corporate partners also voiced their dedication to the marathon’s mission. Kyenekiki Kyando and Rukia Yazid from the sponsors reaffirmed their commitment to improving the health and well-being of women and children in Tanzania.

“As the countdown to July 27 begins, the NBC Dodoma Marathon promises to be more than just a race - it’s a beacon of hope and transformation in the fight against cervical cancer and for improved maternal health,” Kyando said.

Registration is now open via the official website, www.events.nbc.co.tz, with fees set at TZS 45,000 for individuals and TZS 42,000 per person for groups of 30 or more.