Freetown:Africell Sierra Leone has officially launched the fifth edition of the Freetown Africell Marathon, introducing a full 42.2-kilometre race for the first time. This development aims to promote healthy lifestyles, nurture local sporting talent, and elevate the event as a significant fixture on Sierra Leone’s sporting calendar.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the 2026 edition, scheduled for December 6, will feature four categories 5-kilometre, 10-kilometre, a half marathon of 21.1 kilometres, and the full marathon of 42.2 kilometres. The introduction of the full marathon provides experienced runners with a new challenge and creates opportunities for more athletes to participate.
The launch event included Africell officials and representatives from various sporting institutions, such as Prince Vandy Swallay, President of the National Olympic Committee and Commonwealth Games Association of Sierra Leone, and Ibrahim Moses Kargbo, President of the Sierra Leone Athletics Association. The event underscored the marathon’s growing role in promoting athletics and encouraging community participation.
Africell’s CEO, Shadi Gerjawi, highlighted the marathon’s purpose to unite people through sport, promote healthier lifestyles, and offer local athletes a platform to showcase their abilities. He noted the event’s progress, attributing its growth to Africell’s commitment and collaboration with partners and participants.
Gerjawi also emphasized Africell’s broader investment in sports, supporting football, volleyball, and basketball, and mentioned that the marathon could boost tourism by attracting visitors and benefiting local businesses. He announced plans for more attractive prizes across all categories to encourage competition.
Sahr Morris Jr., representing the Sierra Leone Sports Writers Association, noted the marathon’s recognition by World Athletics, which could enhance its international profile and attract elite athletes to Sierra Leone. He called for media support to boost the event’s visibility.
The National Olympic Committee and Commonwealth Games Association of Sierra Leone acknowledged the marathon’s alignment with the Olympic Movement’s commitment to Sport for All. They expressed readiness to collaborate with Africell to use sport as a tool for national development, promoting healthy lifestyles and community engagement.
The 2026 Freetown Africell Marathon is expected to be more than a race, serving as a platform for health promotion, talent discovery, tourism support, and enhancing Sierra Leone’s presence in the global athletics arena.