Makerere Marathon elevated to international status
What began as the Makerere Chemical Society Run in 2022 has now evolved into a major sports and community initiative thanks to a sh1.45b sponsorship from NCBA Bank, which will fund the marathon over the next five years.
Makerere University and NCBA Bank at the launch of the Makerere Marathon. Courtsey Photo
By Silvano Kibuuka
Journalists @New Vision
Makerere University is set to host its first-ever full international marathon on August 17, 2025, attracting over 10,000 runners to participate in a groundbreaking event across Kampala and Wakiso districts.
What began as the Makerere Chemical Society Run in 2022 has now evolved into a major sports and community initiative thanks to a sh1.45b sponsorship from NCBA Bank, which will fund the marathon over the next five years.
The announcement was made by NCBA Managing Director Mark Muyonyo, who officially handed over the cheque to Dr. Margaret Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice Chancellor of Makerere University.
“This sponsorship helps us achieve our dual dream of completing the disability center and supporting academically gifted students who lack tuition,” said Dr. Kigozi, chairperson of the Makerere Endowment Fund.
Participants will compete across four race categories—42.2 km, 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km—open to both amateur and elite runners nationwide.
Prof. Nawangwe praised the partnership, emphasizing its potential to drive change. “I do see a bright future,” he said, while NCBA’s Muyonyo noted the bank’s commitment to community empowerment: “This partnership allows us to support the disabled and contribute to education for bright but financially constrained students.”
With enthusiasm mounting, organizers are calling on alumni, lecturers, students, families, and the general public to be part of what promises to be a landmark event for both sport and social impact.