Jonathan Akankwatsa triumphs at inaugural Mbarara City Marathon

Local favourite Jonathan Akankwatsa emerged victorious at the inaugural Mbarara City Marathon, crossing the finish line in 2 hours, 11 minutes, and 30 seconds to claim his first home victory on Saturday.

Organised by Dickens Kaka under Gaga Athletics Events, the race attracted elite runners—primarily from Bukwo and Kapchorwa—alongside hundreds of participants from the Western Region. Competitions included the full marathon (42km), half marathon (21km), 10km, and 5km categories.

Despite fierce competition from Bukwo’s dominant athletes, Akankwatsa—who is vying for a spot on the senior national men’s marathon team—led from start to finish, outpacing Maxwell Rotich (2:12:01) of Bukwo and Brian Ategeka (2:14:11) of Fort Portal, who secured second and third place, respectively.

Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa and Mbarara City North MP Robert Rukaari (R) take part in the run

The women’s 42km race was swept by Bukwo runners, with Maximilah Cherotich (2:34:02) taking gold, followed by Kereen Chemsuto (2:35:20) and Scarlett Chemos (2:35:56).

Bukwo’s dominance continued in the men’s half marathon, where Abel Chebet (1:03:30) of the Police team claimed victory ahead of Mark Kiptoo (1:04:25) and Dillon Kipyeko (1:05:13). Similarly, in the women’s half marathon, Rebecca Cherop, Ruth Cheptoyet, and Gloria Chebet secured the top three spots.

The event was graced by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, alongside Mbarara City MP Mwesigwa Robert Rukaari and FAO Country Representative Querido Antonio Luis Ferreira. The trio participated in the 10km race, finishing in 1:44, 1:47, and 1:50, respectively.

A standout moment came from para-athlete Senex Barigye, who completed the 5km race in 42 minutes.

Speaker Tayebwa and MP Rukaari after the run

In his remarks, Rt. Hon. Tayebwa praised the organizers for promoting sports and cultural heritage, urging the corporate community to prioritize exercise:
“We thank the organizers and the people of Ankole and Mbarara for ensuring a successful event. Preserving our heritage is vital, and so is staying active for better health. You have our full support.”

MP Rukaari highlighted the economic benefits of such events, calling on the Ankole community to embrace sports.

Meanwhile, Dickens Kaka, pleased with the turnout, pledged that the marathon would become an annual event.

Top performers received cash prizes, with winners taking UGX 1.5 million, runners-up UGX 1 million, and third-place finishers UGX 500,000.

Mbarara City Marathon results

Men

Jonathan Akankwatsa                 2:11.30

Maxiwell Rotich                           2:12.01

Brian Ategeka                              2:14.11

Women

Maximilah Cherotich                 2:34.02

Kereen Chemsuto                      2:35.20

Scarlett Chemos                         2:35.56

Half marathon (21km)-Men

Abel Chebet                               1:03.30

Mark Kiptoo                               1:04.25

Dillon Kipyeko                            1:05.13

Women

Rebecca Cherop                        1:13.22

Ruth Cheptoyet                         1:14.10

Gloria Chebet                             1:16.31