By Lloyd Rabaya
Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG) is finalizing preparations for the inaugural Nyanga Mountain Valley Marathon and Music Festival, set for 26 September 2026 in Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands.
Held under the theme “Run. Breathe. Celebrate,” the event pairs a mountain marathon with a headline performance by musician Jah Prayzah, aiming to draw both runners and music fans.
RTG’s Corporate Affairs and Quality Manager, Pride Khumbula, said preparations were progressing well, with teams working to deliver an event professionally organized.
“Preparations for the Nyanga Mountain Valley Marathon and Music Festival are progressing well, and we are focused on ensuring that every aspect of the experience is ready for participants when they arrive.
From the race routes and participant support to the hospitality and overall guest experience, our teams and partners are working to deliver an event that is professionally organized and worthy of Nyanga’s spectacular setting,” Khumbula said.
The marathon offers four categories: a 3km Fun Run, 5km, 10km and a 21km Half Marathon, catering to different fitness levels, including walkers and families.
The half marathon will test runners against Nyanga’s elevation and alpine terrain.
After the race, Jah Prayzah will perform supported by live DJs and additional acts.
Gateway Stream Media Manager Elton Kurima said the music element was designed to broaden the event’s appeal, giving non-runners a reason to visit while offering racers a way to celebrate afterward.
“The idea was to build a complete weekend experience where sport and entertainment complement each other.
Jah Prayzah brings a major music offer to Nyanga, while the marathon gives people another reason to travel, explore the destination and spend the weekend there,” Kurima said.
RTG plans to make the event annual and eventually expand it into a full 42km marathon, potentially serving as a qualifier for races like South Africa’s Comrades Marathon.
The event is backed by sponsors including title sponsor Pacific Breeze, along with Stanbic Bank, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Musabvunda, Montclair Resort & Conference Centre, Heritage Expeditions Africa, Colourmart Solutions, Aqua Sure, Colcom, Passions Events, Morefresh and Defined Media.
Concert tickets start at US$10, with marathon registration available via Gateway Stream’s online portal.
