Only two days remain before the 21st edition of the Kigali International Peace Marathon, scheduled for June 13–14, 2026, with Rwanda’s national team athletes saying preparations are in their final and most intensive phase.
The event is expected to attract runners from more than 30 countries, further cementing its status as one of the region’s leading road racing competitions.
Final preparations in Bugesera camp
Rwanda’s elite runners have spent the past three weeks in a closed training camp in Bugesera District, where they have been undergoing structured preparation ahead of the competition.
Their daily routine begins at 5:30 a.m. with training sessions designed to build endurance, speed, and race readiness. During training hours, athletes are not allowed access to mobile phones, which are only returned in the evening to allow communication with family and recovery time.
The national squad includes Hitimana Noël (APR Athletics Club), Manirafasha Premier (Sina Athletics Club), and Muhitira Félicien (Nyamasheke Athletics Club) in the full marathon category.
In the half marathon, Rwanda will be represented by Nkurunziza Emmanuel, Nimubona Yves, and Nizeyimana (APR Athletics Club), alongside Niwentwari Pacifique and Ntivuguruzwa Ismael (Sina Athletics Club), as well as Nzayisenga of Police Athletics Club.
“Discipline and morning training make the difference”
Athletes say discipline and early morning training have been central to their preparation.
Hitimana Noël noted that morning sessions help the body adapt to racing conditions and improve endurance.
“Training early in the morning helps the body adapt to altitude and improves breathing. By the time of competition, you are already accustomed to the conditions, which makes performance easier,” he said.
Focus on nutrition and recovery
Beyond training, athletes have adopted strict dietary routines aimed at maintaining energy and supporting recovery.
Manirafasha Premier said their diet prioritizes fruits for natural energy, alongside staple foods such as sweet potatoes, meat, and milk.
“We focus on fruits that provide healthy energy, and meals like sweet potatoes, meat, and milk to build strength and maintain a healthy body throughout preparation,” he said.
Recovery has also been a key part of the program, with athletes using ice baths after intense sessions to reduce muscle fatigue and speed up recovery ahead of the next training cycle.
Coach confident in team readiness
Team coach Rukundo Sylvain said preparations have gone well, stressing that mental strength and confidence are as important as physical fitness.
“In our sport, confidence and hard work are key. When an athlete believes in themselves, that is already the first victory,” he said.
High expectations for race weekend
Final training sessions are now focused on refining speed, endurance, and race strategy under close supervision from coaches and medical staff.
The Kigali International Peace Marathon will kick off with amateur races on June 13, followed by elite competitions on June 14, 2026.
The 2025 edition attracted more than 13,000 participants and was held under the Global Elite Label status for the second consecutive year, reinforcing its growing international reputation.
