Hundreds of Ugandans gathered at Metroplex Shopping Mall in Naalya on Sunday for the second edition of the Independence Marathon, turning a day of running and fitness into a powerful campaign to save mothers’ lives. Held under the theme “Save a Mother,” the event brought together athletes, families, corporate teams, recreational runners and members of the public to raise support for improved maternal healthcare in Uganda.
The marathon featured 42-kilometre, 21-kilometre, 10-kilometre and five-kilometre races, giving participants of different abilities an opportunity to take part. This year’s edition also made history as the first Independence Marathon to use the Kampala Northern Bypass, with the 42-kilometre route stretching from Namboole to Busega.Brian Ategeka, Solomon Tumwesigye and Evas Nassasira were among the leading finishers in the 42-kilometre race, while Brian Okumu, Atumanye Rolline and Innocent Iraguha topped the 21-kilometre category. In the 10-kilometre race, Gabriel Nyangabyeki, Cheptoek Connel and Olinga Joel emerged among the leading runners.
The race was flagged off by Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Diana Atwine, who also served as the chief runner. She said the marathon showed how sport can unite communities while mobilising resources and awareness around important public health concerns, particularly maternal healthcare.Atwine urged Ugandans who did not participate in the marathon to support the cause through financial contributions. Donations can be made through FlexiPay using 189200 or Stanbic Bank account 903001893749. The funds will support the establishment of a modern cold storage facility at the Mengo Rotary Blood Bank to improve its capacity to process, preserve and store blood for mothers facing childbirth complications and other patients requiring emergency transfusions.
Stanbic Bank Uganda was among the key private-sector supporters of the initiative, alongside Old Mutual, TMR Hospital and Jet Tour. Stanbic Chief Executive Mumba Kalifungwa said the bank’s involvement reflects its commitment to improving the lives of Ugandans and supporting initiatives that address major social challenges. He highlighted postpartum haemorrhage as a serious maternal health concern and said adequate blood supplies and proper storage facilities are critical to saving lives.Marathon organiser Robert Kabushenga thanked participants, sponsors and well-wishers for supporting the event, describing it as more than a sporting competition.
He said the marathon brings together healthy living, patriotism and community giving, while TMR Hospital encouraged Ugandans to become regular voluntary blood donors because one donation can help save multiple lives. Organisers also reported that the event went on successfully without serious health complications or accidents among participants.For many participants, the marathon was therefore about more than crossing the finish line.
Mutesi Carol said taking part felt more meaningful because her participation was connected to a campaign aimed at improving blood storage and saving mothers’ lives. With the event expected to continue as an annual feature of Uganda’s Independence celebrations, its organisers and supporters hope it will keep growing into a major platform for combining sport, national pride and practical support for critical healthcare needs.
