Reported by: S.Ernest.
Date: 27th January, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The Absa Marathon has achieved a major milestone by earning official certification from World Athletics, securing its place on the prestigious World Athletics global calendar.
This accomplishment positions the marathon as a globally recognized event, reinforcing Zambia’s growing reputation as a destination for high-quality athletics.
The certification, communicated by the World Athletics World Rankings and Competitions Management team, grants the Absa Marathon the authority to use the coveted World Rankings Competition Label in its communications and marketing.
This mark of global excellence highlights the marathon’s adherence to international standards.
Commenting on the achievement, Absa Bank Zambia Managing Director, Mrs. Mizinga Melu, expressed pride in the marathon’s success:
“This is a proud moment for us at Absa Bank. It has been our unwavering goal to raise the standard of marathons in Zambia and the region, and this recognition by World Athletics is a testament to our efforts.
The Absa Marathon is more than just a race; it is a platform for promoting health, community spirit, and empowering Zambian athletes, whether elite or social.”
Zambia Athletics President, Mr. Elias Mpondela, also praised this milestone, emphasizing its significance:
“I am thrilled to announce that the Absa Marathon has achieved Label Race status, a monumental milestone that showcases the incredible collaboration between Zambia Athletics (ZA) and Absa. This prestigious recognition elevates the profile of the Absa Marathon and boosts Zambia’s reputation as a premier athletics destination.
The Absa Marathon is now the benchmark for marathons in Zambia, being the first and only event in the country to attain this level of certification. This achievement is a testament to Absa’s commitment to excellence and international standards, positioning the marathon as Zambia’s flagship athletics event.” he stated
Acknowledgment of Collaborative Efforts
Mr. Mpondela extended his gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to this success:
“This victory belongs to everyone who made it possible—our partners at Absa, the Lusaka Fitness Squad, athletes, technical officials, volunteers and the wider community. Together, we have proven that collective effort and determination can lead to greatness.”
The Absa Marathon, now in its seventh year, is scheduled to take place on September 6, 2025. With its new status, the event is poised to attract increased participation from both local and international runners, further cementing its role as a platform for promoting health, fitness and sports tourism in Zambia.
The Absa Marathon is Zambia’s premier running event, drawing participants from across the country and the region.
Held annually, it serves as a platform to promote health, fitness, and community engagement while showcasing Zambia’s growing stature in global athletics.
This latest recognition underscores the Absa Marathon’s dedication to excellence and its pivotal role in positioning Zambia as a hub for world-class sporting events.
Absa Bank Zambia
Zambia Athletics – ZA
Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts
The Agency
