Gov't Unveils Kampala City Marathon to Boost Tourism and Health

In a bid to promote tourism and improve public health, the Government of Uganda has announced the launch of the Kampala City Marathon, scheduled to take place in December 2024.

The marathon, spearheaded by the Ministry of Education and Sports and the Presidential Advisory Committee on Export and Industrial Development (PACEID), aims to showcase Uganda's socio-cultural and economic endowment while encouraging physical activity as a lifestyle to prevent non-communicable diseases.

Addressing the media at the Media Centre in Kampala, Hon. Peter Ogwang, the Minister of State for Education and Sports (Sports), highlighted the significance of the marathon as a ten-year project to brand Kampala City and Uganda as a preferred tourist destination.

"The Kampala City Marathon is poised to be one of the top marathon races in Africa, attracting tens of thousands of visitors to experience the best of the Ugandan spirit and hospitality," stated Hon. Ogwang.

"Tourism is an area we believe will be key in helping our country reach these lofty targets. We believe investing in sports tourism initiatives in particular allows us to not only bring in tens of thousands of visitors to experience the best of the Ugandan spirit and hospitality but it also offers us an opportunity to showcase our storied long-distance running tradition and of course celebrate the beauty and diversity that makes Uganda truly unique."

"We also have the added benefit of doing this while keeping our people fit and thus reducing the burden of Non-Communicable Diseases." says the Minister."

Organized in collaboration with the Uganda Athletics Federation, the private sector, and relevant government ministries, the marathon will feature four races: the 42.195km, 10km, half marathon (21.097km), and 5km. The events will kick off and culminate at the Mandela National Stadium and will be open to elite and regular local and foreign runners/joggers.

Hon. Ogwang emphasized the marathon's potential to generate revenue for the country and create opportunities for the Ugandan business community to showcase their products and services to the world.

"The events prior to, during, and post Kampala City Marathon will promote the diverse natural beauty and cultures of our people, in addition to creating a platform for business networking," he added.

The organization of the annual Kampala City Marathon will be fully funded by H.E the President of Uganda Yoweri Museveni.

The marathon is expected to sustain itself through private sector contributions and event proceeds after the initial four years.

Hon. Ogwang called upon all Ugandans to participate in the marathon and capitalize on its associated benefits.

"I would like to appeal to all Ugandans to join the Government in participating in the marathon within your respective capacities and as Government we shall provide a conducive environment for the health of the population through involvement in physical activity."

"We cannot do this without the support of the general public and private sector," he remarked.