The Rotary Club of Kampala has officially partnered with the Gulu City Marathon 2026, reaffirming its commitment to improving community health, empowering young people, and supporting initiatives that create sustainable social and economic impact.
The partnership was announced during the official launch of the Gulu City Marathon at Sheraton Kampala Hotel. The event was officiated by the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Norbert Mao, who applauded the marathon’s growing contribution to national development before officially declaring registration for the 2026 edition open.
“It is now my honour to officially declare registration for the 2026 Gulu City Marathon open.”
Scheduled for 6 December 2026, the Gulu City Marathon has evolved into one of Uganda’s flagship sporting events. Beyond the race, it serves as a platform to promote HIV awareness, celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Acholi people, stimulate tourism, and position Northern Uganda as an attractive destination for investment and development.
Speaking during the launch, Shem Nnaggenda Nsubuga, President of the Rotary Club of Kampala, described the partnership as an opportunity to create lasting impact beyond the finish line.
“This year’s Gulu City Marathon builds on a shared vision by bringing together government, the private sector, development partners, civil society organizations, athletes, and communities to champion health, inclusion, and regional development, while showcasing Northern Uganda as a destination for tourism, investment, culture, and opportunity.”
He emphasized that the marathon represents more than a sporting event.
“For Rotary, this partnership is about transforming lives. Every kilometre run, every partnership built, and every contribution made will strengthen communities, expand access to health services, empower young people, and inspire hope across Northern Uganda.”
As part of the partnership, the Gulu Marathon 2025 presented a UGX 10 million contribution to the Rotary Club of Kampala to support the Dr. Martin Aliker Resource Centre project. The funding will go towards developing the centre, which aims to provide vocational training, skills development, and learning opportunities for young people in Northern Uganda.
Complementing this investment, the Rotary Club of Kampala will work closely with the Gulu City Marathon Secretariat to organize a comprehensive community medical outreach before and during the marathon. The medical camp will offer free medical consultations, health screening, HIV testing and counselling, health education, and referrals for specialized care where necessary.
President Shem reaffirmed the Club’s long-term commitment to ensuring that the partnership delivers measurable impact.
“Rotary Club of Kampala will stand shoulder to shoulder with the Gulu City Marathon. From supporting community medical camps and HIV awareness campaigns to mobilizing runners, partners, and volunteers, we are committed to growing not only the marathon but also the positive impact it creates for generations to come.”
The Rotary Club of Kampala believes that partnerships rooted in service create stronger communities and sustainable development. Through this collaboration, the Club seeks to unite people from every sector around a common purpose of improving health outcomes, celebrating culture, promoting tourism, and investing in the future of Northern Uganda.
The Club calls upon Rotarians, Rotaractors, corporate organizations, development partners, athletes, and members of the public to register for the Gulu City Marathon 2026 and become part of a movement that combines sport with service, community transformation, and national development.
