YAS set to celebrate a decade of sponsorship of 21KM of the Kilimanjaro International Marathon 2025

By Guardian Correspondent , The Guardian
Published at 10:25 AM Feb 19 2025
YAS set to celebrate a decade of sponsorship of 21KM of the Kilimanjaro International Marathon 2025.
Photo: File
YAS set to celebrate a decade of sponsorship of 21KM of the Kilimanjaro International Marathon 2025.

YAS, formerly known as Tigo, proudly marks its 10th consecutive year as the official sponsor of the 21km Half Marathon at the prestigious Kilimanjaro International Marathon 2025. This sponsorship underscores YAS’s continued commitment to sports development, healthy living, and community engagement in Tanzania.

The Kilimanjaro Marathon, one of Africa’s most renowned road races, attracts thousands of participants from across the globe. Over the past decade, YAS has played a pivotal role in enhancing the experience of both elite and amateur runners by providing financial backing and innovative digital solutions that improve event logistics and participant engagement.

Speaking on this milestone, YAS Brand Manager Woinde Shisael reaffirmed the company’s dedication to supporting sports and fitness initiatives. “We are immensely proud to celebrate 10 years of partnership with the Kilimanjaro International Marathon. This sponsorship is more than just branding; it’s about fostering a culture of fitness, perseverance, and community spirit among Tanzanians. As YAS, we remain committed to empowering athletes and fitness enthusiasts through connectivity and digital solutions that enhance their experiences on and off the track.”

Since the inception of its sponsorship in 2015, YAS has continually introduced innovative elements to the marathon. From offering seamless digital registration and mobile payment solutions to providing exclusive data packages for participants and fans, the company has leveraged its technological expertise to transform the marathon experience. Through its sponsorship, YAS has also supported elite Tanzanian runners, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents on an international stage. Over the years, several local athletes have emerged victorious in the Half Marathon category now Yas Kili International Half Marathon, a testament to the growing competitiveness of the sport in Tanzania.

For the 2025 edition, YAS is set to introduce even more exciting elements to enhance participant engagement. This includes an exclusive YAS Runners’ Lounge, a dedicated space for runners to warm up, cool down, and network after the race. The race will also have a real-time race tracking system that will allow supporters to follow their favorite runners live.

Shisael emphasized the importance of these enhancements, stating, “We are always looking for ways to improve the experience for runners and spectators alike. Our goal is to make the Kilimanjaro Marathon not only a race but a memorable event that connects people through technology, passion, and the spirit of competition.”

Beyond the competition, the Kilimanjaro International Marathon serves as a key driver for tourism and economic development in Moshi and the surrounding regions. Thousands of visitors flock to the town each year, boosting local businesses, hotels, and tour operators. YAS’s continued support has helped elevate the event’s global appeal, attracting sponsors, media coverage, and participants from all over the world.

As part of its commitment to social responsibility, YAS will also be planting trees around the Mt.Kilimanjaro region with the initiative dubbed Yas Go Green for Kili 2025.

As YAS enters its second decade of partnership with the Kilimanjaro International Marathon, the company remains focused on expanding its impact beyond race day. Plans include integrating more digital innovations, fostering youth participation in athletics, and exploring new avenues to promote fitness and well-being across Tanzania.

“We are not just celebrating a decade of sponsorship; we are looking ahead to the future of sports in Tanzania,” added Shisael. “Our mission is to continue inspiring, connecting, and empowering individuals through the power of sport and technology.”

With YAS’s unwavering support, the 2025 Kilimanjaro International Marathon promises to be bigger, better, and more digitally connected than ever before. As thousands of runners take to the streets of Moshi under the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, YAS will once again stand at the forefront, championing fitness, competition, and community engagement.

YAS is a leading digital lifestyle brand committed to enhancing the lives of Tanzanians through innovative mobile and digital solutions. Formerly known as Tigo, the company continues to invest in cutting-edge technology, customer-centric services, and initiatives that drive social and economic transformation.