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Virunga Marathon countdown starts
State minister for tourism Martin Mugurura (3rd R) joins partners and sponsors of the Virunga Gorilla Marathon during its official launch. Left is Ivan Kahangire, the Virunga marathon team leader. PHOTO/MICHAEL KAKUMIRIZI
What you need to know:
The Virunga has three mountains, Muhabura, Mgahinga and Sabyinyo, which form the backdrop of Kisoro Town.
The kit for the 2025 Virunga Gorilla Marathon was launched Wednesday after at Kampala Serena Hotel, as the countdown to the event officially started.
Last year’s inaugural event attracted up to 600 participants, and organizers only expect the numbers to shoot up this year.
“We had about 600 people turning up last year and this year we expect at least 1,500 to 2,000 people and it is going to grow every year,” Ivan Kahangire, the marathon organizer, said at the launch.
The Virunga are one of the most spectacular natural areas in the world, rich in flora and fauna and the marathon aims to promote ecological and social sustainability while showcasing the beauty of this iconic destination.
The Virunga has three mountains, Muhabura, Mgahinga and Sabyinyo, which form the backdrop of Kisoro Town.
It is also home to several endangered species, such as the mountain gorillas, eastern chimpanzees, and golden monkeys.
Minister OF State for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Martin Mugarra officiated the launch and thanked organizers for creating products that end up attracting traffic to Uganda’s tourist sites.
“We are having discussions to see how we make sure that whoever comes in for the marathon also benefits from the tourism component,” Mugarra revealed.
The global mountain gorilla population is estimated to be at around 1,063, with over 50% of that number found in Uganda.
“The area has the highest population of gorillas in the whole world. We shall organize some discounts in order to attract more participants in the marathon,” Mugarra added.
The second edition of the event will be held on the May 31, with the start and finish staged at Shaza grounds in Kisoro district.
Runners will compete in the 42km, half marathon (21 km), 10 km and 6 km trails runs.
Elizabeth Mutamuliza, Head of Beer at Uganda Breweries Limited, revealed a sponsorship for the marathon.
“This will go towards preparations and will also include a party at the end of the marathon,” Mutamuliza said.
The Virunga Gorilla marathon will blend sport, conservation, and community impact, offering participants a unique opportunity to run for a cause while experiencing one of Uganda’s most stunning regions.
Tourism, economic development, talent identification and climate change mitigation are the four pillars the marathon organizers are looking to champion this year.
Tusker Lite, Uganda Wild Life Authority, Pepsi, Stanbic Bank, Dorotia’s Bwindi, Ichumbi Hotels & Lodging Ltd and Carbonsafe are some of the partners supporting the marathon.
Event: Virunga Gorilla Marathon
Edition: Second
Date: May 31, 2025
Categories: 42km, half marathon (21km), 10km & 6km trail runs
Kit fees: Shs70,000
Venue: Shaza grounds, Kisoro
Start: 6am
