Second Urban Refugees Marathon set for July 20

The second edition of the Urban Refugees Marathon is set to take place on July 20, starting and finishing at the Old Kampala Secondary School playground.

The event will feature 10km and 5km races, bringing together refugees and Ugandan nationals in a show of solidarity, inclusion, and community building.

The marathon aligns with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) charters of 1951 and 1967, which emphasize support for displaced populations through sport, including initiatives like the Refugee Olympic Team and the Olympic Refuge Foundation.

Held under the theme “Building a Community as a Super Power,” the event aims to promote confidence, showcase talent, and encourage interaction between refugees and host communities.

Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs, Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi Kigozi, officially launched the event and revealed that over 10,000 runners are expected to participate. These will include urban refugees from countries such as Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan, Somalia, DR Congo, Nigeria, and Burundi, among others.

“We thank President Yoweri Museveni for recognizing the contribution of Ugandans in the diaspora and non-citizens living in Uganda, who now have access to business opportunities, education, and even land ownership,” said Walusimbi.

He emphasized that the marathon would help strengthen social cohesion among refugee communities and Ugandan nationals alike.

The race will be flagged off by the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, who shared her message of unity:

“This is not just about physical fitness, but a powerful tool to bring people together and reaffirm Uganda’s commitment to being the most hospitable country for refugees,” Kadaga noted.

Organised under the guidance of Uganda Athletics, the marathon is open to both refugees and non-refugees. Community leaders, including Olivier Bakomezi of the Congolese community and Kisanes Tedros of the Eritrean community, confirmed that their members would participate competitively.

Marathon coordinator Brighton Kwagala noted that registration kits cost UGX 20,000 and can be acquired through offices of various refugee communities in Kampala.

Winners will receive medals and assorted prizes.