Imagine a vibrant island paradise where the rhythm of pounding footsteps meets the cheers of a unified crowd, all in the name of pushing personal limits and boosting a thriving local economy. That's the electrifying spirit of the Yas Zanzibar International Marathon, which has just wrapped up its fifth edition with resounding acclaim from Zanzibar’s Second Vice President. But hold on—stick around, because this isn't just about running; it's a story of transformation that could inspire you to lace up your own shoes and explore how sports can change lives and landscapes.
Zanzibar, Tanzania. In a heartfelt endorsement, Zanzibar’s Second Vice President, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, showered praise on the event's organizers, sponsors, and enthusiastic participants, calling this year's Yas Zanzibar International Marathon a resounding triumph. He highlighted how it consistently boosts sports, tourism, and the local business scene across these stunning islands.
Taking place on November 23, 2025, the marathon showcased exhilarating feats from top-tier athletes, drawing runners from far and wide. Tanzania's Maohhando Ako clinched the top spot in the men's half marathon—a challenging 21-kilometer race that tests endurance and strategy, perfect for beginners to visualize as a longer-than-usual jog that demands training and mental grit. Meanwhile, Kenya's Catherine Syokau dominated the women's gold medal, her victory a testament to the global competitiveness of the event.
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Zanzibar is gearing up for the YAS International Marathon 2025 under the theme 'Kila Hatua ni Spesho' (Every Step is Special)
In the shorter 10-kilometer category, which is a great entry point for new runners as it's about as long as a brisk walk with some speed, Tanzanian athlete Mathias Sylvester took home the win for men, while Sisila Ginoka emerged victorious in the women's division. Their achievements added layers of excitement to this colorful spectacle, proving that whether you're sprinting or pacing, there's glory in every stride.
During his address, Abdulla pointed out the marathon's escalating role in establishing Zanzibar as a premier spot for sports tourism. He lauded the organizers and partners for their dedication, stressing that the event significantly enhances public health by encouraging active lifestyles, draws in visitors with its allure, stimulates economic growth through spending, and puts Zanzibar's natural beauty on the world map. For those new to this, think of sports tourism as a win-win: it brings in tourists who explore beaches and culture while supporting local jobs in hospitality and beyond.
Abdulla urged ongoing investment, noting that the marathon's achievements mirror the nation's advancements in tourism and sports. And this is the part most people miss—the ripple effects extend far beyond the finish line, fostering a healthier populace and stronger communities.
Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Riziki Pembe Juma, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the marathon's power to ramp up sports involvement and lure international talent. She announced that the event is officially recognized by World Athletics, the governing body for global track and field, which elevates it to a certified international stage. This accreditation means runners earn points and prestige that count toward bigger competitions, making it a credible launchpad for aspiring athletes.
This year's marathon gathered a mosaic of participants from Zanzibar, mainland Tanzania, and distant lands like Kenya, South Sudan, Uganda, the United Kingdom, France, South Africa, the United States, Italy, India, China, and Japan. Picture thousands of locals lining the streets, either joining the run or rallying with cheers, turning the islands into a buzzing festival of energy and camaraderie.
Mixx by Yas CEO, Angelica Pesha, shared that the 2025 theme, 'Kila Hatua ni Spesho' (Every Step is Special), embodies the togetherness and advancement seen in every runner's effort. She observed how the marathon unites diverse age groups, from Pemba's novice joggers to seasoned participants defying age stereotypes—imagine a grandparent crossing the finish line alongside a teenager, both conquering personal barriers.
Pesha also spotlighted Yas and Mixx's rapid progress in collaboration with the Zanzibar Government since their rebrand. They've rolled out expansive 4G coverage island-wide and introduced 5G in key areas, erected new towers to link isolated villages, empowered over 25,000 locals via their ecosystem (think digital tools that simplify daily life), and digitized essential services enabling electronic payments for more than 100,000 farmers. That's not all; they've processed transactions worth Sh40 billion for farmers, covered Sh350 million in health insurance for clove growers, and modernized public functions like digital parking in Stone Town, along with services for the Zanzibar Housing Corporation and Revenue Authority.
Moreover, the company has backed national gatherings, offered free internet to over 40 schools (with 110 more on the way), and funded vital health programs that have restored vision for countless island residents. These milestones, Pesha explained, underscore their unwavering dedication to Zanzibar's social and economic upliftment.
Hassan Bondi, Chairperson of the Marathon Organising Committee, expressed gratitude to the Second Vice President for his presence and recognized the backing from partners such as Yas and Mixx, ZanFastFerries, GSM Beverages, and Mnana Online TV. Their teamwork, he said, has been instrumental in the marathon's flawless execution and rising global reputation. But here's where it gets controversial—while many celebrate these corporate partnerships as a force for good, others argue they risk turning community events into profit-driven spectacles, potentially sidelining local voices in the process. Is this collaboration a smart economic boost or a slippery slope toward commercialization that overlooks traditional island values? We'd love to hear your take—agree or disagree in the comments!
Bondi added that the marathon generated a substantial economic surge, with hotels, eateries, transport firms, and small businesses buzzing from the wave of runners and spectators. It's a clear example of how sports can inject vitality into economies, creating jobs and opportunities that ripple out to families and communities.
As we reflect on this year's triumph, one can't help but ponder: In a world where events like this blend tradition with modernity, are we truly honoring the spirit of sports, or are we sometimes prioritizing spectacle over sustainability? Does the influx of international participants enrich or overwhelm local cultures? Share your thoughts below—let's spark a conversation on the future of sports tourism in places like Zanzibar.
