Mother’s Union urged to use sports for mobilisation and health promotion

The Mother’s Union Namirembe has been encouraged to continue leveraging sports as a tool for mobilisation, fundraising, and promoting public health, particularly in their efforts to complete the construction of their House.

The call was made by Bishop Moses Banja on Saturday as he flagged off participants in the inaugural Mother’s Union Half Marathon held at St. Paul Church, Namirembe.

Bishop Banja emphasized the health benefits of physical activity, especially running, noting that it helps keep the body fit and healthy. He expressed the church's commitment to supporting such initiatives and urged all Ugandans to engage regularly in sports.

Bishop Moses Banja addresses participants of the Mother's Union Half Marathon

“We want to thank all those who have participated in promoting this noble cause. As a church, we shall contribute sh2 million this year,” said Bishop Banja.

In the race results, Prisca Ayiyorwoth claimed victory in the 5km women’s category, while Jordan Mulunda took the 21km men’s title. Edreen Masika and Herbert Asiku won the 10km women’s and men’s categories respectively.

Roseline Kawiso, President of the Kampala Central Mother’s Union, echoed Bishop Banja’s sentiments and confirmed that the marathon will become an annual event. She said the initiative will continue even after the completion of the Mother’s Union House, as a way to encourage health and fitness among members.

“I want to thank all participants. Our noble cause is to complete the Mother’s Union building, which stalled. We will run annually—not only to raise funds but also to maintain our health and fitness,” Kawiso said.

The construction of the building began six years ago and is estimated to cost UGX 12 billion. This year, the goal is to raise sh500 million to complete at least one floor.

Kawiso called on corporate brands to emulate those already supporting the initiative, including Vision Group, KCB, Equity Bank, St. Catherine’s Hospital, Liberty Insurance, MTN, and the Uganda Protestant Medical Doctors Association.

She also appealed to well-wishers to contribute to the cause via the Mother’s Union Namirembe Diocese Account (Equity Bank): 1039203182538 or through MTN MoMo Merchant Code: 761959.

Other notable participants included Bishop Wilson Kiseka, Dr. James Bukomeko of Mityana, and Ndejje University Vice Chancellor Prof. Olivia Nasaka.

The Nateete Archdeaconry was recognized as the best performer this year, having sold the most jerseys for the marathon.

The Mother’s Union Namirembe is a charitable organization focused on improving the welfare of mothers and children.