BY: Joseph Mary Buwule.
KAMPALA— The Makerere University Marathon 2026 has been officially flagged off at Makerere University’s Freedom Square, with hundreds of participants braving heavy rains to take part in the charity run aimed at supporting the university’s Disability Support Centre.
The marathon, which brought together members of the Makerere University community, government officials, diplomats, alumni, students, staff, friends of the university and members of the public, turned Freedom Square into a colourful scene of excitement, solidarity and celebration.
Despite the persistent downpour, the enthusiasm among participants remained high, with runners and supporters turning the rainy morning into an atmosphere filled with fun, music, cheers and positive energy.
The marathon was flagged off by Rt. Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth, the Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, who joined university leaders and other distinguished guests in launching the event.
The Speaker’s participation highlighted the importance attached to initiatives that promote inclusion, education, community participation and support for persons with disabilities.
As the starting signal was given, participants set off through the rain, transforming the university grounds into a sea of runners wearing marathon shirts and other colourful outfits.
Running for a Cause
Beyond the excitement and sporting spirit, the Makerere University Marathon 2026 carried a strong social purpose.
Participants took part in the run to raise awareness and support for the Makerere University Disability Support Centre, which plays an important role in promoting access, inclusion and support for students and members of the university community living with disabilities.
The organisers used the marathon to encourage the wider community to recognise the importance of creating an inclusive learning environment in which students with disabilities can participate fully in university life.
For many of the runners, therefore, the marathon was more than a physical challenge. It was an opportunity to demonstrate solidarity with persons with disabilities and contribute to a cause intended to improve their experience at the university.
The heavy rain did little to dampen the spirit of the participants.
Instead, runners embraced the unusual conditions, with many describing the experience as memorable and enjoyable. Laughter, cheers and encouragement could be heard as participants made their way along the marathon route.
Distinguished Guests Attend
The event also attracted a number of prominent personalities, including the Second Deputy Prime Minister of Uganda, who attended the marathon alongside other government and university officials.
Also present was Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, the Chancellor of Makerere University, who joined the university community and other guests in supporting the marathon.
Dr. Kiyonga’s presence added significance to the event, coming as Makerere University continues to promote initiatives that connect the institution with its alumni, partners and the wider community.
The marathon also attracted Makerere University alumni, who returned to their former institution to participate in the run and reconnect with the university.
Their participation demonstrated the continued relationship between Makerere and its former students, many of whom continue to identify closely with the university and support its programmes long after graduation.
Diplomats and Partners Join the Run
A number of ambassadors and members of the diplomatic community also participated in or attended the marathon, further demonstrating the broad appeal of the initiative.
Their presence brought an international dimension to the event and reflected the strong partnerships that Makerere University maintains with governments, diplomatic missions, development partners, academic institutions and other organisations around the world.
The participation of diplomats, university alumni, government officials, students and members of the public created a diverse gathering united by a common objective — supporting the Disability Support Centre.
Freedom Square Filled With Excitement
Before and after the official flag-off, Freedom Square was filled with activity.
Participants gathered in groups, taking photographs, interacting with friends and colleagues and preparing for the run. Music and cheers contributed to the celebratory atmosphere as people waited for the marathon to begin.
When the runners finally set off, the heavy rain created a unique backdrop for the event.
Rather than leaving participants discouraged, the rain became part of the day’s experience, with many embracing the challenge and continuing with the run.
For Makerere students, staff and alumni, the marathon provided an opportunity to combine physical fitness, social interaction and community service.
Promoting Inclusion at Makerere
The focus on the Disability Support Centre also placed inclusion at the heart of the marathon.
Universities have an important role to play in ensuring that students with disabilities have the necessary support, facilities and opportunities to participate fully in academic and social life.
Through initiatives such as the marathon, Makerere University is able to draw public attention to the experiences and needs of students with disabilities while mobilising support for programmes designed to improve their university experience.
The event also provided an opportunity for participants to demonstrate that supporting persons with disabilities is a shared responsibility involving students, university staff, government, alumni, development partners and the wider public.
A Marathon Beyond the Finish Line
The Makerere University Marathon 2026 therefore brought together sport and social responsibility in a single event.
From the official flag-off by Rt. Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth to the participation of the Second Deputy Prime Minister, Makerere University Chancellor Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, alumni, ambassadors, students, staff and members of the public, the event demonstrated the ability of the university community to come together around a common cause.
The heavy rains could not stop the runners.
Instead, they ran, danced, laughed, cheered one another on and continued with the challenge — turning what could have been a difficult morning into a memorable celebration of community and solidarity.
As the participants crossed the finish line, the central message of the marathon remained clear: every step taken was a contribution towards building a more inclusive university community and supporting the Makerere University Disability Support Centre.
The 2026 marathon thus ended not simply as a sporting event, but as a powerful demonstration of unity, compassion and commitment to inclusion — with Freedom Square providing the stage for a day remembered for both the rain and the remarkable enthusiasm of those who came out to run for a cause.