Kampala, Uganda- NCBA Bank Uganda has unveiled a UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship package for Makerere University’s annual charity run, MakRun, becoming the official title sponsor for the 2025 edition. The announcement, made at a press conference at Makerere University, marks the beginning of a five-year partnership aimed at promoting education, inclusion, and sustainable development across Uganda.
The sponsorship cements NCBA’s role as the lead partner in the MakRun initiative, which raises funds to support student scholarships, improve learning infrastructure, and back community outreach programs. The 2025 MakRun is expected to draw thousands of participants nationwide and from across the region, including students, alumni, corporate groups, and fitness enthusiasts.
Speaking at the launch, NCBA Bank Uganda CEO Mark Muyobo said:
“We are proud to join hands with Makerere University for MakRun 2025. This event is a celebration of education, health, and opportunity for all. Our sponsorship reflects NCBA’s belief in impactful partnerships and our unwavering commitment to nation-building through education.”
This year’s MakRun will be held under the theme “Run for Education, Run for Inclusion.” Proceeds from the event will support the construction of a student center and provide scholarships for underprivileged students via the Makerere University Endowment Fund.
NCBA also plans to actively involve its employees, clients, and partners in the marathon and fundraising efforts, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability throughout the campaign.
Muyobo highlighted the broader goals of the partnership, stating that NCBA and Makerere aim to empower students with disabilities, support talented learners from disadvantaged backgrounds, and foster healthy, active lifestyles among youth—all while building the university’s Endowment Fund for future generations.
MakRun 2025 introduces exciting new features, including a full 42.2 km elite marathon, complementing the existing 21 km half-marathon, 10 km, and 5 km fun runs. These additions are expected to elevate MakRun from a local event to a premier running competition that attracts elite and amateur athletes from Uganda and beyond.
The marathon aims to raise UGX 2 billion in total, with funds supporting student welfare programs, community projects, and the university’s long-term sustainability efforts. All proceeds will be directed toward initiatives such as promoting physical activity, supporting students with disabilities, and growing the Endowment Fund.
Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, expressed gratitude for the sponsorship, calling it “a generous gift” that will transform this year’s event.
“This year’s MakRun, scheduled for August 17, will be bigger, better, and more inclusive than ever before. With NCBA’s support, we can now deliver a world-class event that brings together families, alumni, corporate teams, and elite athletes in a day of celebration,” Nawangwe said.
Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MAKEF), emphasized that NCBA’s support will allow for professional event management, including secured traffic-free routes and advanced timing systems, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
She added that funds raised will go toward vital student-support services, such as a new Disability Support Centre, equipped with assistive devices, and an expanded scholarship fund to ensure financial challenges do not force talented students to drop out.
In the lead-up to the event, the MakRun Club will organize weekly Wednesday fun runs to build momentum within the university and surrounding communities. The University Clinic will provide free pre-race health screenings to ensure participants are fit and ready.
On race day, the event will culminate with a lineup of family-friendly activities, including sports games, karaoke, dance competitions, and the highly anticipated MakGroove2025 concert.
