The 2026 edition saw participation rise 26%, with a new digital-arc start and finish line lighting up the Congolese capital.
Runners took over the streets of Kinshasa on 13 September 2026 for the Africell Congo River Marathon, with more than 1,500 participants taking part across the 42km, 21km and 10km races. That is 26% more than in 2025, confirming the marathon’s place as one of Kinshasa’s landmark sporting events.
A bigger stage
This year’s edition introduced something new to the DRC: arcs of digital screens surrounding the start and finish lines, a first for an event of this kind in the country. The screens gave runners and spectators a striking backdrop as they set off and crossed the line, and the areas in front of the Palais de Justice and the Financial Centre were transformed for the occasion.
Behind the scenes, the organisation matched the ambition. Directional signage guided runners along the route, refreshment points were kept stocked throughout, and a reinforced medical team with ambulances was deployed across the course.
A race that brought Kinshasa together
The field reflected the diversity of the capital, with runners from communities across the DRC joined by participants from the United States, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Germany, South Africa, Japan, Pakistan, India, Lebanon, France and Congo-Brazzaville.
The event also drew a strong institutional and diplomatic turnout. The Minister of Sports, Recreation and Youth attended, along with the Special Advisor to the Governor of the City of Kinshasa and the Coordinator of Kinshasa’s Urban Development Unit. The Ambassador of Japan attended with his wife, who ran the race, and the Deputy Head of Mission of Norway also took part. The United States was represented by its Chargé d’Affaires, while the British and Czech embassies set up stands along the route.
The winners
In the men’s marathon, Nathanël Moubio took first place ahead of Alpha Mumbere and Indry Sand Muteb. Gracia Mujinga won the women’s marathon, followed by Jose Khombi and Marthe Ndang.
Over the half marathon, Katombo Mwami Dieu Lève won the men’s race with Masumbuko Kalimba Daniel and Vangu Landy in second and third place, while Cizabed Mavinga took the women’s title ahead of Khombi Mitele Thethe and Etebunga Urim.
In the 10km Fun Run, Kayumba Pierre finished first for the men, followed by Majita Yav and Ciza Bahati. Emilie Tshisuaka won the women’s race, with Kabuho Mutero Judith second and Yasmine Tuluba Ngoy third.
More than a race
For Africell, the marathon is about more than a day of running. It brings people together around sport, community and Congolese pride, and shows what the city can stage when partners pull in the same direction. Planning for the 2027 edition is already under way, with the aim of making it bigger, more inclusive and more memorable still.
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