Independence Marathon: Ugandans run to strengthen blood supply for mothers

What the report says

Hundreds of Ugandans took part in the second Independence Marathon at Metroplex Shopping Mall in Naalya, Kampala, in an event organized under the theme “Save a Mother.” According to The Independent Uganda, the race brought together elite athletes, recreational runners, company teams, families and other members of the public in 42-kilometre, 21-kilometre, 10-kilometre and 5-kilometre categories.

The marathon was used to raise support for maternal healthcare and, more specifically, to help strengthen blood storage capacity for women facing childbirth complications. The initiative is expected to support a modern cold storage facility at the Mengo Rotary Blood Bank, which would improve the processing, preservation and storage of blood for mothers, accident victims and other patients needing transfusions. The event also marked the first time the marathon used the Kampala Northern Bypass, with the full marathon route running from Namboole to Busega.

Diana Atwine, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, flagged off the race and called attention to the role sport can play in rallying people around public health needs. She also encouraged those who did not run to contribute through the fundraising channels listed by organizers. The article said Stanbic Bank Uganda, Old Mutual, TMR Hospital and Jet Tour backed the event, with Stanbic linking its support to its broader social impact agenda.

Organizers described the marathon as a mix of fitness, patriotism and charity, and participants said the cause gave the race added meaning. The Independent Uganda reported that the event concluded without major health incidents and is expected to continue as an annual fixture tied to Uganda’s Independence celebrations.