The Black Star Marathon (BSM) follows the Runathon Ghana Foundation, a non-governmental, not-for-profit sports development organization that was established in 2012 by Eric Kwame ADAE, a former elite Ghanaian long distance runner. The main purpose of the organization is to help focus attention on, and develop long distance running in Ghana, both at the professional and recreational levels.

After staging several hugely successful events between 2012 and 2016, Runathon Ghana took a pause until 2023 when its board decided to introduce a new entity – The Black Star Marathon. This new entity staged its inaugural  event in July 2024.

Starting 2025, the pan-African banking giant Absa became the headline sponsor, effectively changing its name to the Absa Black Star Marathon.

The organization organizes and effectively manages a busy program of various long distance running events, such as marathons, half-marathons, 10Ks, 5Ks, and fun runs. These events are designed to offer more opportunities for Ghanaian runners to race, improve their performance, and compete with international runners. The Absa Black Star Marathon also provides resources to assist athletes train properly, such as coaching, nutrition, equipment, and facilities. 

The organization is also passionate about promoting health and fitness for all, and responding to community needs. It advocates for healthy living through regular exercise among the general population, and supports and promotes worthy social causes, such as education, health, environment, and human rights. It also carries out recreational and youth mission services, by establishing running-based program that promote children’s physical fitness, character development, and personal achievement. It also runs fitness program for executives and mothers.