Telecommunications company Digitel South Sudan has officially launched the second edition of its Independence Marathon, with organizers describing the event as a platform to promote national unity, healthy living and environmental awareness as the country prepares to celebrate its 15th Independence Anniversary.
The 10-kilometre race is scheduled to take place on 9 July 2026, starting and ending at Juba National Stadium, and is expected to attract participants from across South Sudan, including professional athletes, recreational runners, youth, women, senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Speaking during a press conference in Juba on Monday, Digitel Executive Vice President De Chan Awuol said the marathon forms part of the company’s commitment to bringing communities together through sport while contributing to broader national development goals.
He said this year’s event will be held under the theme “Resilience, Unity and Green Future,” reflecting the values Digitel hopes to promote as South Sudan marks another year of independence.
“As South Sudan prepares for the Independence Anniversary, Digitel is proud to mark this important milestone through the power of sports,” Awuol said.
He described the marathon as more than a sporting event, saying it provides an opportunity for South Sudanese from all backgrounds to celebrate their shared identity while promoting physical fitness and social interaction.
“There is no better time to celebrate being South Sudanese than during the Independence period. We want all South Sudanese from all walks of life not only to celebrate our independence but also to promote unity among themselves and encourage healthy living,” he said.
Awuol noted that the event also aligns with the company’s environmental agenda.
He said Digitel is using the marathon to advocate for a greener future and raise awareness about environmental protection, including the adoption of renewable energy solutions.
“We want to inspire positive change, a greener environment, a greener country and a greener South Sudan,” he added.
The marathon was first introduced in 2025 and attracted hundreds of participants. Organizers say this year’s edition is expected to be bigger, with improved planning, wider participation and enhanced race management systems.
South Sudan Athletics Federation (SSAF) Secretary General Marco Akol welcomed the partnership with Digitel and commended the company for its continued investment in sports development.
Akol said preparations for the event had started early to ensure a more professionally organized race.
“This second edition will be better than the first edition because we started preparations earlier, including route measurements, registration systems and logistical arrangements,” he said.
Akol noted that the federation views the marathon as an important opportunity to strengthen athletics in South Sudan while encouraging greater public participation in sports.
He also called on other private companies to support sporting activities in the country, arguing that partnerships between the corporate sector and sports federations are essential for developing athletes and expanding opportunities for young people.
The federation announced that the race will feature different categories, including junior, senior and masters athletes, with awards to be presented to top performers.
Organizers have also opened volunteer recruitment, saying the initiative will help train individuals who could support future national and international sporting events.
Registration for the marathon is now underway through Digitel’s digital platforms, with participants required to complete online registration and pay a participation fee before collecting official race kits.
With just weeks remaining before Independence Day celebrations, organizers say the marathon will serve as a symbol of resilience, unity and hope, bringing South Sudanese together in a shared celebration of nationhood through sport.
