Bujumbura, Burundi — A marathon 'Marathon de la paix' (Peace marathon) is set for December 6, 2008. The purpose of the Marathon is to raise awareness and advocate for peace in Burundi.

The official ceremony to mark the beginning of activities leading up to the marathon was held on July 22 at Hotel Source du Nil in Bujumbura. It was officiated by Mr. Yves Sahinguvu, the first Vice President of the Republic of Burundi. In attendance was Mr. Jean-Jacques Nyenimigabo, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture.

The president of the republic, Mr. Pierre Nkurunziza has put his weight behind the marathon and has invited heads of state of Belgium, Cameroon, Ethiopia, France, Kenya, Monaco, Rwanda, Tanzania, The Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa and Uganda to be present on the day of the Marathon.

The Marathon is divided into four major runs. Three races start and end at the Louis Rwagasore central Stadium in Bujumbura. There will be a full marathon (42km), a half marathon (31 km), an amateur race (5km) and a 1.4km race for children which starts at the Independence Square and ends at the Louis Rwagasore central stadium.

As part of the ceremonies, the construction of a synthetic athletics track in Bujumbura will be officially launched on the day of the Marathon of Peace. This track is funded by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).

Prominent runners of Burundi Venuste Niyongabo the first and only Olympic gold medalist for Burundi in the 5,000 meters in the 1996 summer Olympics in Atlanta, USA, and Arthémon Hatungimana who won a silver medalist in 800 metres In 1995 at the World Championships have also promised to be part of the Marathon.