The Bantu-iBOM Kulture Culturethon is a one-of-a-kind heritage marathon festival that connects 600,000 Bantu-iBOM Kulture citizens across six ethnic-lingual nationalities, showcasing the diversity of Akwa Ibom’s cultural and creative heritage. It features a 50km culture runway—a living corridor of music, fashion, dance, cuisine, and crafts—where participants celebrate identity while engaging in movement, fitness, and community pride.
The Bantu-iBOM Kulture Heritage Diversity District anchors this marathon, bringing together thousands of cultural expressions—food, music, arts, and traditions—into a vibrant exhibition of unity in diversity. Citizens and visitors experience the full spectrum of Akwa Ibom’s cultural assets in one immersive journey.
Beyond celebration, the Culturethon has a transformational socioeconomic impact:
Health & well-being: By promoting physical activity, active lifestyles, and mass participation, the marathon fosters a culture of wellness and preventive health.
Tourism & economic growth: The Culturethon attracts both local and international visitors, stimulates local businesses, and generates new opportunities for vendors, artisans, and SMEs along the route.
Employment & enterprise: Creative entrepreneurs, hospitality providers, and cultural operators benefit from jobs and income generated during the festival.
Peace & social cohesion: Bringing together all six tribes in one symbolic journey fosters inclusion, unity, and inter-ethnic solidarity.
Global branding: The Culturethon positions Akwa Ibom as Africa’s home of heritage-driven festivals that connect culture to sustainable development.