Rugerinyange Athanas, originally from Muhanga District and now residing in Gasabo District, was among the participants at Kigali International Peace Marathon 2025. Despite having a leg amputation, he didn’t let his disability stop him from taking part in the big race.
On Sunday, June 9, 2025, the 20th edition of the Kigali International Peace Marathon took place. The event was officially launched by Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Nelly Mukazayire, at Amahoro Stadium in Remera.
In an interview after finishing the race, Rugerinyange thanked the President of Rwanda for initiating and promoting the marathon.
He said: “This race brings us together from different places, it makes life easier and promotes unity. I started with the 21 km distance but later decreased because it required a lot of strength. The Kigali Peace Marathon continues to improve, and we are happy to see foreign participants also visiting Rwanda. My message to fellow amputees is: don’t be afraid, this race is for everyone.”
Competing in his 12th edition, Rugerinyange praised the event’s progress in including all runners, including those with disabilities.
In race results: Kenya’s Laban Kipngetich Korir won the men’s Full Marathon in 2:18:26, followed by Langat Kipkirui (2nd) and Ethiopia’s Tadese Mamo Temechachu (3rd). Rwandan Nizeyimana Alexis (Nyaruguru AC) placed 5th. Rwandan runners Hitimana Noël and Ntirenganya Fidèle missed due to illness.
On the women’s side, Kenya’s Teresiah Omosa claimed gold in the Full Marathon with 2:37:12. In the Women’s Half Marathon, Rwanda’s Niyonkuru Florence won gold in 1:13:57 over 21.9 km.
In the Men’s Half Marathon, Kenya’s Njoroge Derrick Chege took first place in 1:05:23.
The Kigali International Peace Marathon continues to unite international athletes, Rwandans, and people with disabilities in promoting peace and unity through sport.
