Preparations for the inaugural Independence Marathon have gained momentum after hundreds of runners and fitness enthusiasts took part in a build-up activation at Metroplex Shopping Mall in Naalya on Saturday.
The marathon, sponsored by Stanbic Bank Uganda, will be held on October 4 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, with proceeds going towards the establishment of a cold storage facility at the Mengo Rotary Blood Bank.
The facility is expected to improve blood storage capacity and help provide lifesaving transfusions to mothers and other patients.
Marathon organiser Robert Kabushenga said the event will combine fitness, patriotism and community service as Ugandans celebrate Independence.
‘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.
Marathon kits cost Shs70,000, with registration available through FlexiPay, MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money. All finishers will receive medals.
Stanbic Bank’s Corporate Social Investment manager, Diana Ondoga, said the partnership seeks to address maternal health challenges, particularly postpartum haemorrhage.
‘At Stanbic, we believe Uganda is our home, and we drive her growth. Supporting initiatives like the Independence Marathon demonstrates our commitment to partnering with communities to solve real societal challenges and create sustainable impact,’ she said.
Franco Ariho, who is in charge of blood donation at Mengo Hospital, urged Ugandans to become regular voluntary blood donors, saying increased blood storage capacity could help reduce preventable maternal deaths.
‘Postpartum haemorrhage remains one of the leading causes of maternal mortality in Uganda, yet many of these deaths are preventable when safe blood is available,’ Ariho said.