Omusinga's Birthday Run merged with 60th coronation anniversary

The second edition of the Omusinga’s Birthday Run will take place alongside the 60th coronation anniversary celebrations of the Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu Kingdom on November 14, 2026.

The Kingdom has postponed the coronation anniversary, which was scheduled for October 19, to allow the celebrations to coincide with activities marking the birthday of Omusinga Charles Wesley Mumbere Iremangoma.

Kingdom Prime Minister Benson Kule Baritazale announced the changes in a statement issued by Buhikira Royal Palace on Wednesday, saying the day will feature three major activities.

“The 14th of November 2026 will host three important activities: the Omusinga’s Birthday Run in the morning, the 60th coronation anniversary celebrations in the afternoon and the launch of the Buhikira Royal Palace fundraising,” Baritazale said.

The Kingdom said the postponement was due to the continued absence of Mumbere, who is currently in Turkey for a medical review. His return date has not been announced.

The Omusinga’s Birthday Run is expected to attract runners, cultural leaders, subjects and other well-wishers to Kasese for the combined celebrations.

Baritazale said the Kingdom expects the second edition to attract more participants and improve on last year’s event.

“We expect this year’s birthday run to attract more runners, bring our people together and become bigger and better than the first edition,” Baritazale said.

The inaugural run attracted participants across the 5km, 10km and 21km categories, with organisers selling 2,518 race kits.

A total of 740 runners took part in the 5km race, 462 in the 10km and 397 in the 21km event. The races followed different routes through Kasese Municipality, including Mbarara, Fort Portal, Kilembe and Crescent roads.

In the men’s 21km race, Ericana Nyamunyu finished first, followed by Melody Masereka and Kelvin Mumbere. Eva Masika won the women’s category ahead of Eliza Mbambu and Jovia Biira.

Omega Julius won the men’s 10km race, while Annet Muhanuka Muhindo took the women’s title. Felix Bwambale won the men’s 5km race, followed by Benedict Tibara and Elton Mumbere.

The inaugural event also received support from medical teams, security personnel and volunteers, with police reporting no major incidents.

Participants welcomed the run, saying they hoped it would become an annual event because it brings people together and promotes physical fitness.

Meanwhile, Baritazale confirmed that the Kingdom’s Talent Development Day, scheduled for October 18 under the leadership of Kyakere Carnival, will proceed as planned at Rwenzori Square.

The event is intended to identify, develop and promote talents among people in the Kingdom.

The Kingdom had also planned to mark Nyabaghole Day on October 20, with activities aimed at educating communities about the importance of strong families and stable relationships. However, Baritazale noted that Her Royal Highness is also in Turkey alongside the Omusinga.