Our History
The Absa Marathon Zambia has evolved into one of the country’s most prominent sporting and community events, reflecting a journey marked by growth, resilience, and meaningful social impact.
Launched in 2018 by Absa Bank Zambia in partnership with local fitness communities, notably the Lusaka Fitness Squad, the marathon began as a modest initiative with just over 500 participants. Despite its humble beginnings, the event was anchored in a clear and compelling vision: to promote healthy lifestyles, foster athletic excellence, and create a unifying platform that brings people together through sport.
By 2019, the marathon had already begun to gain momentum, attracting more than 1,000 participants. Its inclusive structure, featuring race categories such as 5km, 10km, 21km (half marathon), and 42km (full marathon), allowed individuals of varying fitness levels—from elite athletes to recreational runners—to take part. This inclusivity quickly became a defining characteristic of the event, strengthening community engagement and participation.
In 2020, the global COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges to public gatherings and sporting events. Demonstrating adaptability and innovation, the Absa Marathon transitioned into a virtual format. Participants ran individually from various locations and submitted their results digitally. This ensured continuity while prioritising health and safety, and underscored the organisers’ commitment to sustaining the marathon’s spirit under difficult circumstances.
From 2021 onwards, the marathon returned to physical events with renewed energy and continued to expand in scale and prestige. By 2023, it had established itself as one of Zambia’s largest road races, drawing thousands of participants and increased corporate sponsorship. The event also began aligning with international marathon standards, positioning itself as a potential contender on the global athletics calendar.
Beyond its athletic focus, the Absa Marathon has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to social impact. It has served as a platform for raising awareness and supporting charitable initiatives. Notably, in recent years, the marathon has contributed to causes such as addressing menstrual poverty, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for positive change within communities.
Participation has grown significantly over time. By 2024, the marathon attracted over 6,500 runners, including international participants, and by 2025, this number had risen to nearly 8,000 runners from more than 20 countries. This remarkable growth highlights the event’s increasing regional and global appeal, as well as its contribution to tourism and cultural exchange.
Furthermore, the marathon has played a vital role in the development of athletics in Zambia by providing a competitive platform for local talent. Athletes have used the event to achieve national recognition and set new records, thereby strengthening the country’s sporting landscape.
Today, the Absa Marathon Zambia stands as more than just a race. It is a powerful symbol of endurance, unity, and progress—bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds in a shared pursuit of health, achievement, and community transformation. Its continued success reflects the growing appreciation for fitness and the enduring power of sport to inspire and uplift society.