KAMPALA- State Minister Hon.Martin Mugarra Bahinduka on Wednesday presided over the launch of Virunga Gorilla Marathon.The 2nd Edition of the Virunga Gorilla Marathon is slated for 31st May 2025 at Mayor’s Gardens, Kisoro.
The theme “”Run for the Green: Every Step Plants a Tree” resonates with the climate change mitigation agenda. This marathon will encompass the 42km, half marathon (21 km), 10 km and 6 km trails runs.
The Minister of State Hon.Martin Mugarra Bahinduka while speaking at the launch at Serena Hotel promised the Ministry’s support towards Virunga Gorilla Marathon in every way possible to ensure that it is successful in promoting Gorilla conservation and tourism around the world, showcase the beauty and natural offerings of Kisoro such as Gahiza Island on Lake Mutanda, the Mgahinga Gorilla National Game Park as well as promote tourism for youth employment.
He appreciated the tireless efforts of the organizers plus other marathon partners like Gulu Marathon, Rwenzori Marathon, Kabaka run,Kampala 7 Hills Marathon, Uganda Wildlife Marathon, MTN marathon for promoting and raising Uganda’s profile through marathons that attract thousands of participants into the Country.
Furthermore, the Minister pledged to attend and run 10km, come 31st May 2025 and called upon everyone to join in this worthy cause for gorilla conservation. Over 1,000 runners are expected to participate.
Launched to identify and nurture local athletic talent capable of winning gold for the country, the marathon also aims to promote sports tourism.
It is an event that takes one through an extraordinary journey via the breathtaking landscapes of Kisoro, Uganda, the famous home to the iconic Virunga Mountains and the endangered mountain gorillas.
“The Virunga Gorilla marathon easily blends sport, conservation, and community impact, offering participants a unique opportunity to run for a cause while experiencing one of Uganda’s most stunning regions” said Kenneth R. Kamukama, CEO Virunga Gorilla Marathon.
The Virunga Gorilla marathon is bent along the four pillars of tourism, economic development, talent identification and climate change mitigation.
It will offer an opportune moment to showcase the awesome beauty of Kisoro while bringing people to experience its rich culture and wildlife.
Due to the ability to lure numbers, it will boost the local businesses and communities through increased visibility and engagement. Kisoro being an high altitude area, it will provide a platform for discovering and nurturing the next generation of elite runners.
Also, the marathon will further promote afforestation and sustainable practices to protect Kisoro’s delicate ecosystem.
The Virunga Gorilla marathon offers scenic and challenging routes to the different runners as they traverse picturesque trails winding through the Virunga landscape.
There will definitely be rolling hills, misty mountain views, and lush greenery.
The marathon is viable platform for change referred to as a rallying point for environmental sustainability.
“We are working closely some partners to amplify our message of conservation, including tree-planting drives and community-led eco-projects.” Kamukama asserts.
The payment is Ug.Shs 70,000 per participant. The Virunga Gorilla marathon therefore will be a perfect test for seasoned marathoners and the casual runners to offer an unmatched blend of adventure, purpose, and community.
