NAIROBI, Kenya Jul 6 – The Nairobi County Government has reaffirmed its partnership with Standard Chartered Bank Kenya ahead of the highly anticipated 23rd edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon.The collaboration was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting sports, healthy living, tourism, and environmental sustainability across the capital.Representing Governor Johnson Sakaja during the official launch, Acting County Secretary Godfrey Akumali, accompanied by County Attorney Boniface Waweru, Chief Officer for Sports Oscar Igaida, Chief Officer for Security and Compliance Eva Wairuku, and Director of Sports Linet Boyani, commended Standard Chartered Bank for its long-standing investment in community development.Akumali described the partnership as a significant milestone that continues to position Nairobi as a leading global sporting and economic hub.“This partnership means a great deal to Nairobi City County as the host city,” Akumali said. “It brings people from across the globe, providing an opportunity to showcase what Nairobi has to offer, including the Nairobi National Park, the Nairobi Expressway, and other key infrastructure that reflects the city’s growth and development.”This year’s marathon will take place on October 25, 2026, under the theme “Now It Is Your Turn,” and will feature a scenic and impactful route.Local Organising Committee Chairman David Mwindi said the theme is a rallying call for individuals of all ages and abilities to challenge themselves, embrace healthier lifestyles, and create positive change through sport.Participants will race along the Southern Bypass against the backdrop of the Nairobi National Park, reinforcing Nairobi’s reputation as the world’s only “Green City in the Sun.”Beyond elite athletic competition, the partnership is also focused on driving social and environmental transformation. Through the Standard Chartered Foundation, the bank continues to empower youth through initiatives in education, entrepreneurship, and employability.The MoU further supports Nairobi County’s vision of becoming a climate-smart city. Nairobi City County and Standard Chartered are jointly implementing a tree-planting initiative targeting 50,000 seedlings to expand urban green spaces and strengthen community health efforts across all sub-counties.The marathon launch attracted key dignitaries and county officials, underscoring a multi-sectoral commitment to ensuring public safety, effective traffic management, and emergency response preparedness during the event.Akumali urged Nairobi residents, media partners, and volunteers to register early and turn out in large numbers to support the runners while showcasing the city’s diversity, hospitality, and vibrant spirit.