Runners gear up for the Independence Marathon

Seeking healthier habits and a spark of motivation, many Ugandans have found their stride in running, joining energetic clubs that crisscross the country.

Running is now woven into daily life, and when Ugandans run for a cause, their passion only grows. Past marathons have united tens of thousands, turning every stride into a blend of challenge and charity.

The recently concluded Rotary Cancer Run drew immense crowds, all rallying together to help build and equip a cutting-edge cancer treatment center at Nsambya Hospital, united in the fight against cancer’s growing burden.

Some of the runners in action during the Bugolobi 5K Run, part of the Independence Marathon preparations. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

The Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon is quickly becoming a highlight in Kasese, drawing runners and tourists alike to its scenic routes along the majestic Rwenzori Mountains and championing both wellness and adventure.

The marathon will take place along the Northern Bypass, starting at Namboole Stadium, proceeding to Busega Interchange, and returning.

Bankrolled by Stanbic Bank, the marathon will also focus on corporate social responsibility under the theme ‘save a mother,’ aiming to reduce birth-related haemorrhage.

Proceeds will also boost maternal health services at Mengo Hospital. Apart from Stanbic, TMR Hospital, Old Mutual, and Nivana Water also support this year's event. Several running clubs are already gearing up for the event.

On Saturday morning, runners from the different clubs converged in Bugolobi for the 50th Bugolobi 5K Social Run as part of the preparation for the Independence Marathon.

Some of the runners on their way to the finish during the Bugolobi 5K Run, part of the Independence Marathon preparations. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

“We started the Social Run Club last September, and this is our 50th run. To celebrate, we invited other running clubs from all over Kampala, as well as our local community from areas like Bugolobi, Mutungo, Mbuya, and Nakawa,” Hassan Kisambira aka Sunny, the chief organiser, said.

“We've got way more people than usual, probably between 300 and 400, which is a lot more than our typical 40 to 60 runners on a Saturday. We're super happy to have sponsors like Bavaria Smalt, Banange Beer, and Jibu helping out with the whole event. They always provide us with drinks, including water, soft drinks, and beer, every weekend.”

“It's a social run, so it's a relaxed pace, and then we all hang out afterwards. It's a great way for people in Kampala and the surrounding areas to spend their Saturday mornings, something a bit different from the usual.” He said the Bugolobi 5K is just one of the things Sunny Outdoors does.

“Sunny Outdoors is all about adventure and has a big community of people who love outdoor activities like hiking, camping, running, and cycling. “We're hoping that after this run, we'll have at least 100 regular runners joining us every Saturday. And, yes, we're involved in the Independence Marathon, and actually, we're doing some promotion for it today, registering runners here at the Bugolobi event,” Kisambira stated.