By David Mwanje
Kampala– NCBA Bank Uganda has pledged a transformative UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship package, becoming the official title sponsor of Makerere University’s MakRun 2025. Unveiled at a press conference at Makerere University, this five-year partnership highlights a shared commitment to advancing education, promoting inclusion, and fostering sustainable community development across Uganda.
The annual MakRun, themed “Run for Education, Run for Inclusion” for 2025, aims to raise UGX 2 billion to support student scholarships, enhance learning infrastructure, and drive community outreach. Scheduled for August 17, 2025, the event is expected to attract thousands of participants, including students, alumni, corporate teams, and fitness enthusiasts from Uganda and beyond. NCBA Bank Uganda’s CEO, Mark Muyobo, emphasized the bank’s dedication to education and nation-building, stating, “We are proud to partner with Makerere University because the MakRun champions access to education, health, and opportunity for all. This sponsorship reflects NCBA’s commitment to creating lasting impact through meaningful partnerships.”
The sponsorship will fund critical initiatives, including the construction of a dedicated student center, scholarships for disadvantaged students through the Makerere University Endowment Fund, and the establishment of a Disability Support Centre equipped with modern assistive devices. Proceeds will also promote active living among students and the surrounding community. Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, noted that NCBA’s support will ensure traffic-free routes, professional timing systems, and a safe, car-free course, while strengthening the scholarship fund to prevent bright students from dropping out due to financial constraints.
MakRun 2025 introduces a full 42.2 km elite marathon alongside the traditional 21 km half-marathon, 10 km, and 5 km fun runs, elevating the event into a premier platform for both professional and aspiring runners. Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe described NCBA’s contribution as a “generous gift” that will deliver a seamless, world-class event. “This year’s MakRun will be bigger, better, and more fun, free of past logistical challenges, bringing together families, alumni, corporate teams, and elite runners for a day of sport and celebration,” he said.
NCBA Bank will engage its staff, customers, and partners to participate in the run, contribute to fundraising, and promote environmental sustainability. Leading up to race day, the MakRun Club will host weekly Wednesday fun runs to energize the community, with the University Clinic offering pre-race medical screenings to ensure participant readiness. The marathon will culminate in a vibrant post-race celebration at Freedom Square, featuring family-friendly sports, karaoke, dance competitions, and the MakGroove2025 concert.
The NCBA-Makerere partnership sets a powerful precedent for corporate-academic collaboration in Uganda, championing education, inclusion, and community development. For more information on participation or contributions, visit Makerere University’s official website or contact the MakRun organizing team.
