Over 500 runners join inaugural ADRA Run to support girl child in Northern Uganda

Over 500 runners took part in the inaugural ADRA Run, mushing through roads in Kira Division, Wakiso District, on Sunday.

The event featured 5km and 10km routes, starting and ending at the Metroplex Shopping Mall in Naalya. It was organised by the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) to raise funds to support the girl child in Northern Uganda, beginning with the district of Agago.

ADRA Country Director John Mwanza highlighted the role of sports as a tool for physical fitness, mental wellness, and community development.

"We are happy that through sports and this run, themed 'Run to Save Her Future' — many lives can be rehabilitated," Mwanza said.

He explained that the faith-based organisation aims to raise 200 million shillings to support the wellbeing of the girl child in Northern Uganda by providing vocational skills and education.

While the main event took place in Kampala, simultaneous runs were held in Agago, Kitgum, Lamwo, Pader, Kaabong, and Kotido.

"Right now, we are raising awareness among parents, teachers, and the wider community," Mwanza added, citing UNICEF statistics showing that one in four girls in Uganda becomes pregnant between the ages of 14 and 19, often before completing primary education.

Samuel Bamweyana, ADRA's Faith and Community Development Manager, called on the government for increased support for NGOs, noting that their work supplements government efforts through the Office of the Prime Minister and partnerships with the Ministries of Education, Health, and Local Government.

Bishop David Simwogerere of the Central Uganda Conference thanked the government for its existing re-skilling programmes but urged their expansion.

"I call on all religious denominations to undertake re-skilling and 'back-to-school' projects to enhance the lives of the girl child and the boy child alike. We must ensure these difficult situations do not push children into harmful habits or health risks," Bishop Simwogerere said.

Race results (untimed road run)

Men

10km: 1st Vedast Bihama, 2nd Andres Kakusu

5km: 1st Jackson Busaasi, 2nd Moses Bbaale

Women (5km)

1st Sharon Birungi, 2nd Victoria Naiga