Virunga gorilla marathon launched, Ugandans urged to fight climate change

23 March 2025, 1:23 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Martin Muggara, has applauded the organisers of the second edition of the Virunga Gorilla Marathon, set to take place on May 31 in Soroti district.

“I thank the organisers and our sponsors for this marathon. These are great initiatives because we previously had very few marathons in Uganda. Currently, we have only two major ones where we participate, and now this one has been added. I want to appreciate the private sector and individuals who have invested money in this event. This marathon is not a government initiative; we will only join in and offer some support,” he said.

Speaking at the launch held at Serena Hotel in Kampala this week, the minister emphasised that the Virunga Gorilla Marathon provides an opportunity for athletes to qualify for international championships such as the Olympics.

“I think this is a good initiative because it allows athletes to participate in other professional events like the Olympics. By the time we reach the fifth edition, participation will have grown significantly. Kisoro has an altitude similar to that of our national training centre, making it ideal for training. Gradually, the event will develop further and attract more tourists from other countries. We encourage Ugandans to take part in the marathon. Additionally, there is an opportunity to tour gorilla habitats, which is why we will engage the organisers to provide discounts for Ugandan participants to increase turnout,” he explained.

Similarly, Ivan Kahangire, the team leader of the organising committee, shared the inspiration behind the marathon.

“There are four reasons why I decided to start this marathon. First, I wanted to promote tourism in Kisoro and Uganda at large. When we started last year, Kisoro Hospital had an ICU that was purchased by a doctor named Kwizera Arthur. His contribution was highly appreciated. When I met him, I shared my idea of bringing the world to Kisoro to complement what he had done. People contributed, and in April this year, we are expecting to receive the necessary medical equipment for the hospital. Last year, we had over 600 participants; this year, we expect over 1,500. These visitors will stay in our hotels and lodges and eat our food, boosting Kisoro’s revenue,” he said.

Kahangire and his team believe that Kisoro can also produce talented athletes like Kipsiro.

“As Kisoro, we believe we can nurture talent that can qualify for the Olympics and win medals because our altitude is similar to that of Kapchorwa, where Kipsiro and other great athletes come from. Last year, our focus was on the ICU; this year, we are emphasising tree planting for climate change mitigation. We invite everyone to come and experience the best,” he concluded.

Julius Muhirwe, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the initiative, elaborated on the importance of proper marathon participation.

“A marathon is officially 42.195 kilometers. If you run a shorter distance, that is not a marathon. Many people walk five kilometers and claim to have participated in a marathon, that’s not accurate. If you run 10 kilometers, that’s just a run. The closest alternative is a half marathon, which is 21 kilometers. I encourage you to join us in Soroti for this second edition,” he said.

The event has attracted several partners, including Stanbic Bank, Team Matooke (which will send some runners), Uganda Police, tourist transporters, and the Uganda Wildlife Authority, which has promised gifts for the top two winners.

Marathons play a crucial role in combining sports and tourism. The theme for this edition is “Climate Change Mitigation.” According to the organisers, running kits are available at an affordable cost.