NCBA Bank Uganda today reaffirmed its commitment to advancing education, healthy living and community development through its continued partnership with Makerere University during the Makerere Marathon (#2026MakMarathon), one of Uganda’s largest community sporting events.
The annual run brought together thousands of students, alumni, staff, corporate partners and members of the public, underscoring the shared commitment of the private sector and academia to promoting education, wellness and national development.
Speaking at the end of the marathon at the Freedom Square at Makerere University, the Executive Director, NCBA Bank Uganda, Julius Konyani, emphasized the importance of partnerships. “At NCBA Bank Uganda, we believe that sustainable progress is built through meaningful partnerships. We are therefore proud that the funds raised through this year’s marathon will support the Makerere University Disability Support Unit through the provision of specialized assistive technologies and learning equipment. This initiative aligns with our Change the Story agenda, through which we invest in education, sports and sustainable community development.”
“For more than a century, Makerere University has produced leaders who have transformed communities, institutions and economies across the continent. Supporting the Makerere Marathon is therefore an investment not only in today’s participants but also in the future generations who will benefit from a stronger and better-resourced university,” Konyani added.
According to the Konyani, this event is not just about crossing a finish line. It is also about promoting healthy lifestyles, encouraging active communities and demonstrating what can be achieved when institutions, businesses and individuals unite around a shared purpose.
“The marathon is not only about completing a race. It is about promoting healthy lifestyles, fostering resilience and demonstrating the values of discipline, teamwork, determination and excellence. These are values that resonate strongly with us at NCBA and guide our commitment to the customers and communities we serve,” Konyani said.
The bank noted that the event aligns with its broader Corporate Social Investment strategy, which focuses on education, youth empowerment, sports development, entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and environmental sustainability.
According to Konyani, initiatives such as the Makerere Run demonstrate how partnerships between the private sector and educational institutions can generate lasting value for communities while encouraging healthier and more active lifestyles.
The Makerere Marathon hosted by the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MAKEF) returned for its sixth edition as Kampala’s premier charity marathon, uniting over 8,000 runners—students, alumni, corporate teams, and elite athletes—to tackle the city’s iconic hills under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future.” This landmark event combines competitive racing with transformative impact, channeling proceeds to strengthen Makerere University’s community programmes while offering unmatched branding opportunities for partners through Kampala’s largest university-led sporting spectacle.
The event has become one of Uganda’s largest inclusive runs, welcoming participants of all abilities. This year’s event that started and finished at Freedom Square, featured a full 42.2 km professional marathon alongside the 21 km half marathon, 10 km sprint, 5 km challenge, and an inclusive 3 km wheelchair challenge races.
The top winners of each race at the 2026 Makerere Marathon were:
42.2 km
Kibet Oscar
Kipsisi Eibern
21 km half marathon
James Kirwa
Drileba Leonard
21km women
Febia Chematai
10 km sprint
Semmy Aproru
Abel Aloki
5 km challenge
Edian Nuwagaba
Isaaci Ocen
3 km wheelchair challenge
Kule Katende Festus
Lauben Kato
The objectives of the marathon are: to promote active physical lifestyles and mental well-being amongst over 20,000 students, over 150,000 alumni, Makerere Community and city residents across Kampala; channel a portion of proceeds to equip the Disability Support Unit; and use a portion of proceeds to build a sustainable pool of funds to support Economically Disadvantaged Students over the long term.
In July, NCBA pledged UGX 1.45 billion over the next five years to support the marathon and the impact projects it funds.
The bank reaffirmed its commitment to building strategic partnerships that contribute to Uganda’s long-term development while creating opportunities for communities to thrive.
“Today, thousands of people have come together from different backgrounds, with one common purpose. Whether you are a student, alumnus, lecturer, corporate partner, athlete or first-time participant, your presence demonstrates the power of collective action in creating positive change,” Konyani said.
“To all the participants, thank you for choosing to be part of this important cause. Every step you took today contributes to improving educational opportunities while inspiring healthier and more active communities,” he added.
As the country’s oldest and most prestigious institution of higher learning, Makerere University has in recent years placed inclusive development at the heart of its long-term strategic vision.
NCBA Bank Uganda Limited is a subsidiary of NCBA Group PLC, East Africa’s largest bank by digital customer numbers. With an asset base UGX 1.2T and a strong liquidity profile, NCBA bank combines extensive corporate and retail banking experience with leading innovations, offering products from mobile banking, asset finance to tailored investment solutions. Focused on relationship management and customer success, NCBA empowers clients to achieve financial goals while supporting regional economic growth.
