CRDB Bank Expands Marathon to Congo and Burundi, Spreading Smiles Across Borders
By: Niels Malangalila | Blog | June 6, 2024 07:22
![](https://crdbbank.co.tz/storage/app/media/MARATHON%20PICS%202024.jpg)
CRDB Bank has proudly announced the expansion of its flagship event, the CRDB Bank International Marathon, to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi. This significant milestone marks the fifth season of the marathon, which promises to be more thrilling and impactful than ever before. For the past four years, the CRDB Bank International Marathon has united runners from around the world to support various charitable causes, promote community well-being, and provide a platform for international athletes. This year, the marathon aims to make an even greater difference by extending its reach to neighboring countries. Since its inception in 2020, the marathon has actively mobilized funds for children with heart conditions at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) and provided care for at-risk pregnant women at the CCBRT Hospital. Additionally, it has contributed to crucial projects such as the construction of the Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI) Call Centre, the Maternal and Child Health Centre in Zanzibar, and support for environmental conservation campaigns. Tully Mwambapa, Director of Corporate Affairs at CRDB Bank and Managing Director of the CRDB Bank Foundation, expressed pride in the marathon's positive impact on the community. "Our marathon is not only about promoting a healthy lifestyle but also about helping others. The funds raised from participants and partners directly support those in need of medical assistance, demonstrating our commitment to making a difference in people's lives," said Mwambapa. The expansion to Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo underscores CRDB Bank's dedication to serving communities beyond Tanzania. "We have been providing services in Burundi since 2012, and last year we expanded to the Democratic Republic of Congo. This marathon expansion is an opportunity to improve health and well-being while fostering economic growth in the region," added Mwambapa. The CRDB Bank International Marathon is certified by the International Association of Athletics Federations and Distance Races (AIMS), ensuring it meets the highest standards of athletic competition. With AIMS' support, CRDB Bank aims to make this year's marathon the most successful yet. In its fifth season, the marathon will take place in three cities across East Africa. The race will kick off in Lubumbashi, DR Congo, on August 4, 2024, followed by Bujumbura, Burundi, on August 11, 2024, and culminate in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on August 18, 2024. With over 8,000 participants expected in Dar es Salaam alone, the CRDB Bank International Marathon promises to be a celebration of athleticism, community spirit, and philanthropy. By participating, runners will not only challenge themselves but also contribute to spreading smiles and making a positive impact across borders.