On Monday, Minister of State for Education and Sports (Sports), Peter Ogwang (MP), unveiled plans for the inaugural Kampala City Marathon, a bold government initiative aimed at boosting tourism, investment, and public health in Uganda.
Addressing the media at the Kampala Media Centre, Minister Ogwang said the marathon is a joint effort between the Ministry of Education and Sports and the Presidential Advisory Committee on Export and Industrial Development (PACEID), in collaboration with the private sector.
The event, scheduled for December 2024, marks the beginning of a ten-year project designed to promote Uganda’s socio-cultural heritage and economic potential through sport and tourism.
The Kampala City Marathon, which will feature multiple race categories including a full marathon (42.195km), half marathon (21.097km), 10km, and 5km events, aims to position Uganda as a premier destination for international runners and tourists.
Minister Ogwang emphasized the marathon’s role in showcasing Uganda’s rich diversity, long-distance running tradition, and renowned hospitality.
The Ministry of Education and Sports will spearhead the marathon’s organization, supported by Golazo, an experienced international event management company known for its work on prestigious marathons such as Berlin, Nairobi, and Rotterdam.
Minister Ogwang expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic backing of Uganda’s President, who is funding the event to promote physical activity as a means of combating non-communicable diseases. He called on all Ugandans to participate and take ownership of the marathon, emphasizing the importance of public and private sector collaboration to ensure its success and sustainability.
The marathon promises a vibrant program of cultural festivities, entertainment, and business showcases, providing a platform for local entrepreneurs to exhibit their products and services to a global audience. Beyond the race weekend, special safari packages will be offered to encourage post-marathon tourism to Uganda’s diverse natural attractions.
As the marathon evolves over the coming decade, it is expected to attract over 65,000 participants and become a cornerstone of Uganda’s sports and tourism calendar.
Minister Ogwang commended the media for their ongoing support in promoting sports awareness and pledged continued collaboration to advance Uganda’s sporting ambitions.
He further encouraged the public to engage with the Ministry of Education and Sports and follow media coverage leading up to the December 2024 event.