Mwanza
For Adeline Ndesanjo, the Rock City Marathon is not just an annual sporting event—it’s a movement, a vision, and a golden opportunity to position Tanzania as a world-class destination for both athletics and tourism.
As the marathon coordinator from Capital Plus International, Adeline is leading the charge to ensure the 2025 edition of the Rock City Marathon becomes the most inclusive and internationally recognized yet.
“This year, we expect to host participants from every corner of the globe—from Africa, Europe, China, the Middle East, particularly Israel, and the United States,” Adeline said during the official launch of the eighth season’s registration held at the Serena Hotel in Dar es Salaam.
Her call to action was loud and clear: local athletes must rise to the occasion.
“We want to see strong participation from Tanzanians, especially those from the Lake Zone. This is your marathon. This is your chance to stand shoulder to shoulder with world-class runners and to showcase not just your talent but also the beauty, hospitality, and culture of Mwanza and the Lake Zone,” she emphasized.
A Global Vision with Local Roots
Adeline’s ambition is to turn the Rock City Marathon into one of Africa’s premier races—one that attracts global runners, tourists, and media attention. She understands the power of sports tourism and is committed to using the marathon as a vehicle to boost Mwanza’s visibility on the world stage.
“We believe that events like this marathon can significantly support domestic tourism, draw international visitors, and generate economic opportunities for local businesses,” she said.
Adeline noted that this year’s edition has introduced several technological upgrades aimed at improving the participant experience. Unlike previous years where manual bookings and ticketing were the norm, the marathon has now fully embraced online registration and multi-platform ticket sales. This digital shift makes the event more accessible to both local and international participants, streamlining the process and expanding its reach.
Building an International Community
Beyond the logistics, Adeline is passionate about building a sense of community through the marathon. She believes that bringing together athletes from different countries creates a unique cultural exchange that leaves lasting impressions.
“We are not just running. We are telling Tanzania’s story to the world. We are inviting people to experience our cities, our landscapes, and our people,” Adeline shared.
She also emphasized that the marathon is an open platform—not just for elite runners but also for amateur athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and corporate teams who want to be part of a bigger cause.
“This is an event for everyone. Whether you are competing to win, running for fun, or supporting as a sponsor, there’s a space for you. It’s about coming together, pushing boundaries, and celebrating life,” she said.
Adeline’s Broader Mission
Her leadership extends beyond organizing the marathon. Adeline is actively building partnerships with sponsors, government agencies, and international bodies to ensure the marathon’s long-term sustainability and growth.
She is particularly focused on encouraging young people to get involved—not only as athletes but also as volunteers, entrepreneurs, and innovators who can leverage the marathon’s growing platform.
“We want the youth to see the marathon as a space where they can connect, grow, and contribute. Whether it’s through technology, logistics, media, or sports, there are countless ways to be part of this journey,” she said.
As preparations intensify for the October 29, 2017 race in Mwanza, Adeline’s vision continues to inspire those around her. Through her leadership, the Rock City Marathon is fast becoming more than a race—it’s a celebration of Tanzania’s potential, a call to global athletes, and a bridge between communities.
For Adeline Ndesanjo, the finish line is not just about who wins the race—it’s about how far the marathon can take Tanzania.