Two-time Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge will run his first-ever marathon on African soil when he competes in the Cape Town Marathon on May 24.

Kipchoge, often considered the greatest long-distance runner in history, announced that he would run seven marathons over the course of the "next two to three years," primarily to raise funds for his conservation and education-focused foundation.

"I have been planning for the world tour for a long time, and I am happy that the first one will start with my own continent. This will be my first race in Africa," said the two-time world record holder, who was also the first person to run a sub-two-hour time over 42km.

The 41-year-old Kenyan will bring star power to the race, which is currently bidding to join the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors. If the bid succeeds, the Cape Town race could join leading events such as the London Marathon, New York City Marathon, and Tokyo Marathon in the global series by 2026.

Kipchoge said the race holds special meaning for him.

"Africa is where my journey as a runner began and where the foundation of my success is deeply rooted," he said.

"To start this world tour on my own continent is very special. It is about celebrating the strength of African running and inspiring the next generation," he added.