Ghana is set to host the first-ever Absa Black Star Marathon on July 26, 2025, with organisers promising an unforgettable experience that goes beyond athletic competition. Officially launched in Accra yesterday, the event will take place at the historic Independence Square, where the race will both begin and end, transforming Accra into a canvas of stories, strength, and celebration.
In a keynote address delivered virtually from the United States, Dr. Eric Kwame Adae, Founder and President of the Black Star Marathon (BSM), positioned the event as more than a race—“a celebration of a movement.” Drawing from the Pan-Africanist vision of Marcus Garvey, the 2025 theme, “Your Story Matters,” reflects a deep commitment to honouring the personal journeys of all participants.
“This race belongs to you—to elite athletes, wheelchair racers redefining strength, and everyday heroes running for loved ones or healing,” Dr. Adae said. “Your pace doesn’t matter. Your story does.”
The event will feature two categories: a 42.2km Full Marathon and a 10km Race, both open to wheelchair athletes, reinforcing the organisers’ commitment to inclusivity. Dr. Adae highlighted the marathon’s alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and its role in promoting sports tourism in Ghana.
Absa Bank Ghana, the marathon’s headline sponsor, reaffirmed its dedication to social impact through sport. Speaking at the launch, Nana Essilfuah Tamakloe, Director of Marketing and Corporate Affairs, said:
“This marathon is a Force-for-Good. Proceeds will support kidney dialysis treatment for underserved patients, athlete development programmes, and youth empowerment.”
Further support has come from the Ghana Tourism Development Company (GTDC), whose CEO Prof. Kobby Mensah unveiled plans for a dynamic sports-themed parade ahead of the race, featuring athletes on a double-decker bus tour through Accra.
“We’ll showcase Accra like never before. From vibrant neighbourhoods to cultural landmarks, we aim to position this as one of the world’s most iconic marathon experiences,” Prof. Mensah stated.
Participants can register for the marathon via shortcode *713*33*22# or online at blackstarmarathon.com. The route has been carefully mapped to spotlight key landmarks in Accra, ensuring a festive, immersive experience for both runners and spectators.
With the rallying cry, “One People. One Race. One Destiny,” the Absa Black Star Marathon calls on runners around the globe to be part of something greater—a celebration of stories, strength, and unity.
“Let the Black Star rise. And let the stories begin,” Dr. Adae concluded.
The countdown is on. Ghana is ready.
