KABALE: The Lake Bunyonyi Eco Marathon in Kabale District is expected to draw 500 participants, according to the event organizers.
According to Mark Tukamushaba, the founder of the Kigezi Corporate League, Miss Uganda, Natasha Nyonyozi, will be the event’s chief runner on 26th October 2024.
Tukamushaba, announced that the 10-kilometer race will start and finish at Kabale Main Stadium. He added that over 100 companies, institutions, and organizations have confirmed their participation in the event.
Tukamushaba also revealed the prize structure: the winner will receive one million Ugandan shillings, while the second and third runners-up will receive 300,000 and 200,000 shillings, respectively.
Stephen Kuteesa, Executive Director of CEPCOM Uganda, highlighted the environmental significance of the Lake Bunyonyi catchment area, which has long been a natural habitat for various bird species.
Unfortunately, he noted, human activities in the area such as domestic solid waste pollution, indiscriminate disposal, littering, and burning have led to serious environmental degradation, including siltation of Lake Bunyonyi, contamination of local streams, alteration of soil composition, and extensive air pollution.
Kuteesa emphasized that the responsibility to preserve the environment is collective, urging everyone to participate in the sustainable use of resources to foster harmonious coexistence. He explained that the marathon is intended as a mobilization tool to engage communities in the protection, conservation, and restoration of the Kigezi Region’s ecosystem.
Kabale Municipality’s Environment Officer, Alfred Ahimbisiibwe, pledged his support to the organizers, ensuring the success of the event.
Eric Sunday, Deputy Town Clerk of Kabale Municipality, praised the marathon, stating that it will not only raise awareness of environmental issues but also promote healthy lifestyles by helping participants reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases. He also highlighted the marathon’s role in educating locals on proper garbage disposal.
Source: thesource.co.ug
