Mao hails role of Gulu City Marathon, Uganda Baati in developing Northern Uganda

What the report says

Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs Norbert Mao praised the Gulu City Marathon as a driver of development in Northern Uganda during the launch of the 2026 event in Gulu. According to The Independent Uganda, Mao said the race helps bring together government, businesses, development partners, communities and visitors, while also supporting tourism, local trade, youth opportunities and investment promotion in the region.

The article said Uganda Baati renewed its backing for the marathon ahead of the December 5 race. The company’s head of external and corporate affairs, Jackie Tahakanizibwa, said Uganda Baati has continued to support the event because of its community impact. Through the Uganda Baati Foundation and partners, she said last year’s outreach provided free medical services to more than 5,000 people. She also said the health camp highlighted the need for stronger HIV awareness, especially among young people, which is now a focus of this year’s marathon.

Marathon convener Francis Gimara said the event was created to reshape perceptions of Gulu and the wider north by encouraging visitors to experience the area’s culture and community life. Businessman Amos Wekesa urged broader local ownership of the event, saying it could grow into a major African race if leaders, businesses and residents support it. Rotary Club of Kampala president Shem Nnaggenda K. Nsubuga also said Rotary would keep supporting the marathon’s health and community programmes.

The report added that the 2026 marathon is expected to attract runners from Uganda and abroad, with organizers linking the race to tourism, public health and economic activity in Northern Uganda.