NCBA backs education and community development through Makerere Run

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT |  NCBA Bank Uganda has reiterated its commitment to education, healthy living and community development through its continued partnership with Makerere University, following the sixth edition of the Makerere Marathon.

The marathon, held on September 27, brought together more than 8,000 students, alumni, staff, corporate teams, athletes and members of the public for a series of races aimed at promoting wellness while raising funds for community programmes at the university.

The event, organised by the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MAKEF), was held under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future” and started and finished at Freedom Square.

Speaking at the end of the marathon, NCBA Bank Uganda Executive Director Julius Konyani said the event demonstrates how partnerships between the private sector and educational institutions can generate long-term benefits for communities.

“At NCBA Bank Uganda, we believe that sustainable progress is built through meaningful partnerships. We are therefore proud that the funds raised through this year’s marathon will support the Makerere University Disability Support Unit through the provision of specialised assistive technologies and learning equipment,” Konyani said.

He said the partnership is aligned with NCBA’s “Change the Story” agenda, which focuses on investments in education, sports and sustainable community development.

“For more than a century, Makerere University has produced leaders who have transformed communities, institutions and economies across the continent. Supporting the Makerere Marathon is therefore an investment not only in today’s participants but also in the future generations who will benefit from a stronger and better-resourced university,” Konyani said.

The marathon featured a 42.2km professional race, a 21km half marathon, a 10km sprint, a 5km challenge and a 3km wheelchair challenge, making it one of Uganda’s major inclusive sporting events.

The event also sought to promote physical activity and mental well-being among students, alumni, the Makerere community and Kampala residents, while contributing to initiatives supporting economically disadvantaged students.

Konyani said the marathon was about more than competition, noting that participation in sport can encourage healthier lifestyles while promoting values such as discipline, teamwork, resilience and determination.

“The marathon is not only about completing a race. It is about promoting healthy lifestyles, fostering resilience and demonstrating the values of discipline, teamwork, determination and excellence,” he said.

The bank’s support comes as part of its wider corporate social investment strategy, which covers education, youth empowerment, sports development, entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and environmental sustainability.

In July, NCBA pledged Shs1.45 billion over five years to support the Makerere Marathon and the projects funded through the event.

The proceeds from the marathon will support the Makerere University Disability Support Unit through assistive technologies and learning equipment, while part of the funds will contribute to a sustainable financing pool for economically disadvantaged students.

Konyani said the participation of thousands of people from different backgrounds demonstrated the potential of collective action to address community needs.

“Today, thousands of people have come together from different backgrounds, with one common purpose. Whether you are a student, alumnus, lecturer, corporate partner, athlete or first-time participant, your presence demonstrates the power of collective action in creating positive change,” he said.

He thanked participants for supporting the cause, saying their involvement would contribute to improving educational opportunities while promoting healthier and more active communities.

The marathon has grown into a major university-led sporting and fundraising event, combining competitive racing with initiatives aimed at strengthening Makerere’s community programmes.

In the 42.2km race, Kibet Oscar and Kipsisi Eibern emerged among the top winners.

James Kirwa and Drileba Leonard were among the winners in the 21km half marathon, while Febia Chematai won the women’s 21km category.

Semmy Aproru and Abel Aloki took the top positions in the 10km sprint, while Edian Nuwagaba and Isaaci Ocen won the 5km challenge.

In the 3km wheelchair challenge, Kule Katende Festus and Lauben Kato emerged as winners.