KAMPALA,Uganda – More than 6,000 runners on Sunday morning participated in the MakRun 2025, a charity marathon organised by the Makerere University Endowment Fund to raise UGX 2 billion in support of students with disabilities.
The run, held under the theme “Run for Education, Run for Inclusion”, brought together Makerere University students and staff, corporate companies, alumni, and dignitaries from both the public and private sector. NCBA Bank was the lead sponsor.
Speaking at the event, Mark Muyobo, CEO of NCBA Bank, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to inclusivity in education:
“As a corporate organisation, it is important for us to give back and support those who are less privileged,’ he said.
Muyobo hailed the run, describing it as a success in terms of turnout, weather, and overall organisation. He noted that with NCBA Bank’s five-year sponsorship worth UGX 1.5 billion, students with disabilities at Makerere University will have greater access to education and the essential support they need to thrive.
“This initiative helps students with disabilities at Makerere University, and we have committed UGX 1.5 billion over the next five years towards organising this run,” he added.
He revealed that all the 6,000 kits that were put on the market were sold out, a clear indication of the strong public willingness to support the cause.
“Participation this year was overwhelming all 6,000 kits were sold out—and that proves this cause has strong public support.”
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, praised the event’s impact.
“We have decided to make this run an annual event at the beginning of every year. Beyond promoting health, it enables us to raise funds for our students with disabilities. Proceeds from past marathons established and equipped the one-stop Disability Centre at Makerere.”
He noted that this year’s funds will go into upgrading facilities and providing new wheelchairs where needed.
Makerere Guild President James Churchil Ssentamu described the run as a symbol of inclusivity.
“Whoever bought a kit has contributed to supporting students with disabilities on campus. We believe they are not disabled they are simply able differently. This initiative reaffirms our collective commitment to making university education accessible to all.”
From the Ministry of Education, Robert Bellarmine Okudi, Commissioner for Education Planning, commended the turnout:
“I am very happy with the numbers today. Events like this show that we can nurture all talents and abilities in society. As someone who has run global marathons, I can confidently say Makerere’s MakRun is building its own strong legacy.”
Board member of the Makerere Endowment Fund, Jennifer Mwijukye, thanked participants and sponsors:
“Thank you for showing up in large numbers and supporting this noble cause. This run is not just about fundraising—it is about community, alumni connection, and giving every student a chance to thrive. With NCBA’s long-term support and continued participation, MakRun will only get better every year.”
The MakRun has become one of Makerere’s signature annual events, with proceeds dedicated to improving facilities for students with disabilities.
Last year, the funds supported the purchase of computers and other equipment at the Disability Centre.
The target of UGX 2 billion is earmarked for revamping and renovating the students’ centre.
