KAMPALA — Hundreds of Ugandans turned up at Metroplex Shopping Mall in Naalya on Sunday for the second edition of the Independence Marathon, held under the theme “Save a Mother” to mobilise resources for maternal healthcare.
The marathon featured 42km, 21km, 10km and 5km races, attracting elite athletes, recreational runners, corporate teams and families.
This year’s edition marked a milestone as the first Independence Marathon to use the Kampala Northern Bypass, with the 42km route stretching from Namboole to Busega.
Brian Ategeka, Solomon Tumwesigye and Evas Nassasira were among the top finishers in the 42km race, while Brian Okumu, Atumanye Rolline and Innocent Iraguha topped the 21km category. In the 10km race, the leading finishers were Gabriel Nyangabyeki, Cheptoek Connel and Olinga Joel.
The race was flagged off by Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Dr. Diana Atwine, who served as chief runner.
Atwine said the marathon shows how sport can be used to mobilise communities around critical public health priorities, particularly maternal health.
“Saving a mother requires all of us to play our part. Events such as the Independence Marathon bring the public together around a cause that directly affects families and communities. Every contribution towards strengthening maternal healthcare can make the difference between life and death,” she said.
She urged those who did not participate to support the cause through FlexiPay 189200 or Stanbic Bank account 903001893749.
Funds raised will support the establishment of a modern cold storage facility at the Mengo Rotary Blood Bank, to increase its capacity to process, preserve and store blood for mothers experiencing childbirth complications, accident victims and other patients requiring transfusions.
Organiser Robert Kabushenga thanked participants and sponsors, describing the event as more than a race.
“The Independence Marathon is more than a race. It is a movement that brings together healthy living, national pride and giving back to the community. Every person who registers, runs or walks is contributing towards saving the lives of mothers across Uganda,” he said.
The marathon was supported by Stanbic Bank Uganda, Old Mutual, TMR Hospital and Jet Tour.
Stanbic Bank Uganda Chief Executive Mumba Kalifungwa said the bank’s support is aligned with its purpose, “Uganda is our home, we drive her growth,” and its Positive Impact Agenda.
“Supporting the Independence Marathon is one way of contributing to healthier communities and addressing challenges that have a direct impact on the lives of Ugandans. Saving mothers is a cause that requires collective action, and we are proud to be part of this journey,” Kalifungwa said.
He noted that postpartum haemorrhage remains a leading cause of maternal mortality, making reliable access to blood critical.
“Safe motherhood is one of Stanbic’s key impact areas because no woman should lose her life while giving life,” he added.
Participant Mutesi Carol said the cause gave the marathon added meaning.
“I came to run, but I also came because of the cause behind this marathon. Knowing that my participation can contribute towards better blood storage and ultimately help save a mother’s life makes this more meaningful than an ordinary race,” she said.
Waldah Atheena of TMR Hospital encouraged Ugandans to become regular voluntary blood donors and said the marathon ended without any serious health complications or accidents.
The Independence Marathon is part of Stanbic’s broader social impact initiatives as the bank marks 35 years in Uganda.
