East African gazette
Entebbe
Approved by President Yoweri Museveni, the annual “International Kampala Marathon” is set to be launched in November this year.
This approval took place on April 17, 2024, during a high-level meeting that President Museveni hosted at the State House.
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Ambassador Dr. Amina J. Mohamed, the former Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Heritage, and Culture, Bob Verbeeck, the CEO and founder of the well-known sports marketing agency Golazo, Peter Ogwang, the State Minister of Education in charge of sports, and Odrek Rwabwogo, the Chairman of PACEID Uganda and Presidential Advisor for Special Duties, were all present at the meeting.
During the meeting, the president pledged government’s support for the initiative.
It is anticipated that 20,000 runners including elite runners from Uganda and throughout the world, will participate in the event.
Uganda wants to become a global sports and tourism destination, and this historic decision attempts to do just that.
The Kampala Marathon aspires to become Africa’s premier marathon, showcasing the natural beauty and hospitality of Uganda to a global audience.
By leveraging the abundant talent of Ugandan elite runners, the event aims to draw attention to the country’s rich sporting culture while promoting tourism throughout the region.
With quality infrastructure, breathtaking landscapes, and a vibrant community, Uganda becomes an ideal venue for this esteemed marathon.
The event will not only benefit the participating athletes but also contribute to the local economy by boosting tourism and creating employment opportunities.
The organizers are committed to ensuring that the Kampala Marathon adheres to international standards and best practices.
An experienced team led by the Ministry of Education and Sports and assisted by Bob Verbeeck will oversee all aspects of the marathon’s organization, from course management and participant registration to security and hospitality.
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The inaugural edition of the Kampala Marathon is scheduled to take place in November 2024.
During the meeting Ogwang (State Minister for Sports) informed the President that also the National High Altitude Training Center in Kapchorwa is ready for commissioning and invited him (president) to commission it.
Others in attendance at the meeting included Ms. Ketty Lamaro, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Sports and the former Kenyan High Commissioner to Uganda, Ambassador Kiema Kilonzo.