The Twende Butiama Marathon returns this year with an inspiring 1,500-kilometre bicycle journey across 11 regions of Tanzania, running from 3rd to 13th July. The journey will conclude in the historic village of Butiama in Mara region—the birthplace of the Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere.

This powerful social initiative has grown into a nationwide movement promoting inclusive development through access to healthcare, quality education, environmental conservation, and support for vulnerable groups.

Over the past two years, Twende Butiama has impacted the lives of thousands of Tanzanians: more than 150,000 people have received free health services, over 100,000 trees have been planted in schools to raise environmental awareness, more than 1,900 desks have been distributed to 34 primary schools, and 50 bicycles have been given to rural students to reduce travel time to school and boost attendance.

This year’s edition will officially kick off at Kijitonyama Grounds in Dar es Salaam. It will pass through the regions of Pwani, Tanga, Arusha, Manyara, Singida, Tabora, Shinyanga, and Simiyu before ending in Mara. Along the way, cyclists, stakeholders, and local communities will participate in activities including tree planting, health camps, environmental clean-ups, and educational support.

Zuweina Farah, Director of Communications and Public Affairs at the company supporting the initiative, emphasized their commitment to ensuring no one is left behind in the country’s development journey.

“We believe in connecting Tanzanians for a brighter future, and Twende Butiama is one of the ways we bring that vision to life. Whether it’s digital inclusion, access to education, free healthcare services, or environmental care—this campaign reflects the power of partnership and a genuine commitment to progress,” said Zuweina.

This year’s journey will also focus on supporting people with special needs by distributing assistive devices such as wheelchairs, helping to build a more inclusive society.

Founder of Twende Butiama, Gabriel Landa, stated:

“What started as a small cycling initiative has grown into a national movement for change. Each year we plant trees, provide education, and touch the lives of thousands. This year’s journey from Dar es Salaam to Butiama is truly a ride of hope for our nation.”

The Twende Butiama marathon is supported by various partners including ABC Impact, ABC Bicycle, local governments, national and regional cycling clubs, development organizations, and the telecommunications company Vodacom Tanzania.