Gulu City is set to host the second edition of the Gulu Marathon on Saturday, 6th December, as the year winds down. The marathon was officially launched yesterday at Kampala Club, with organisers and sponsors pledging an even bigger and more vibrant event than the inaugural run.
Deeply rooted in cultural heritage, tourism promotion, health, education, and economic empowerment, the marathon brings together a wide network of partners whose contributions go far beyond financial support. Their collective efforts continue to champion wellness, unity, and community development across Northern Uganda.
Equity Bank, a key sponsor, reaffirmed its commitment through Robert Wanok, the Head of Retail Banking, who stated:
“Our sponsorship is strongly aligned with our mission to transform lives and livelihoods while promoting health, community engagement and cultural preservation. We are grateful for the opportunity to continue standing with the people of Northern Uganda.”
He added:
“The story of Gulu is a story of resilience, of heritage and of Africa. We believe that when each partner picks up one piece of the work, we collectively build the bigger picture, because it truly takes a community to raise a generation and to shape a future.”
Following the race, selected participants and visitors will be treated to a Northern Ugandan buffet dinner on Saturday evening, complete with performances from local musicians and authentic cultural entertainment. The celebrations will continue with performances from Swangz Avenue artists, production by Buzz Events, and an energetic after-party powered by Tusker Lite.
Marathon convenor Francis Gimara expressed excitement about the growing interest:
“Last year our target was 500 runners; we registered 600. This year, we have already exceeded our target again. We are truly grateful for the growing support. This marathon would not be possible without our partners who have co-created a meaningful and impactful event that benefits both the community and their own brand objectives.”
Beyond the race itself, the marathon continues to stand as a strong driver of education, culture, health, and community-strengthening—values that align closely with Equity Bank’s mission of empowering communities for sustainable transformation.
With its World Athletics certification, the Gulu Marathon has grown beyond a local run and is now a globally recognized event.
The announcement of cash prizes has generated further excitement in Gulu City. Ronald Oloya, a peer mentor and addiction coach working with youth, welcomed the initiative:
“Such measures are very good. They give young people meaningful activities where they can participate and earn. It’s more than just a run; it’s going to bring the city together, foster unity, and showcase what Gulu is all about—the vibes, the culture.”
Winners in the various categories will walk away with significant prizes:
42km Marathon:
1st: UGX 3,000,000
2nd: UGX 1,500,000
3rd: UGX 1,000,000
21km Race:
1st: UGX 1,500,000
2nd: UGX 1,000,000
3rd: UGX 500,000
10km Race:
1st: UGX 1,000,000
2nd: UGX 500,000
3rd: UGX 250,000
The Wheelchair Race, one of the highlights of the marathon, will carry similar prizes to the 10km category.
The marathon will be flagged off at Kaunda Grounds, which will also serve as the finishing point.
