Striding Forward for Legacy & Livelihoods: Thousands Mobilise in the 4th Kabalega Independence Run 2026

HOIMA CITY, UGANDA — The historic Rukurato Grounds in Hoima City brimmed with vibrant energy, unity, and determination on October 10th, 2026, as thousands of citizens, fitness enthusiasts, cultural leaders, and dignitaries gathered for the 4th Edition of the Kabalega Independence Run.

Held as the grand finale of the week-long Kabalega Independence Week (KIW) 2026, the annual sporting event successfully combined wellness, community solidarity, and a powerful social mission: mobilizing resources to support smallholder coffee farming households across the Bunyoro Sub-Region.

Running for More Than Fitness: From Legacy to Livelihoods

Organized by the Kabalega Foundation in strategic partnership with the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), the Uganda Coffee Federation (UCF), and NARO, the Run is designed to translate historical pride into tangible socio-economic transformation.

Drawing participants across diverse race categories—2km, 5km, 10km, and 21km—runners of all ages took to the streets of Hoima City to honor the enduring legacy of Omukama Cwa II Kabalega, a historic champion of self-reliance, sovereignty, and unity.

Crucially, 100% of the proceeds generated from running kit sales are directly channeled toward a transformative cause: procuring and distributing high-quality coffee seedlings, alongside practical agronomic training in climate-smart farming, post-harvest handling, and quality standards for smallholder farmers throughout Bunyoro.

Presidential Address and Leadership Presence

The event was graced by high-level national and regional leadership. Hon. Grace Mary Mugasa Akiiki, Minister of State for Bunyoro Affairs, stood as the Chief Runner and delivered an inspiring address on behalf of the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

In his message, the President commended the organizers for institutionalizing the legacy of Omukama Kabalega as a pillar for societal unity, Pan-African integration, and household wealth creation. He urged communities in the Albertine region to leverage government development frameworks and actively participate in wealth-generating sectors—ranging from commercial agriculture and industry to services and ICT.

Echoing these sentiments, leadership from the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom emphasized that land in Bunyoro must be treated as a productive economic asset. With coffee adopted as a strategic cash crop to uplift household incomes, the annual Run serves as a vital bridge connecting traditional heritage with modern agricultural enterprise.

A Shared Commitment to Regional Transformation

Speaking on the impact of the initiative, the Executive Director of Kabalega Foundation, Dr. James Isagara Kisoro, noted that the true measure of the Independence Run extends far beyond the finish line.

“Every participant in this year’s Run has invested in the future of a farming household,” Dr. Kisoro noted. “We are running for health, but we are also running for opportunity, productivity, and a future where our people can turn their labor into lasting prosperity.”

As runners crossed the finish line at the Rukurato Grounds, the momentum seamlessly transitioned into afternoon cultural festivities, featuring traditional music, dance, and a vibrant celebration of Bunyoro’s rich heritage.

With thousands of seedlings set for distribution and strong private-sector and institutional partnerships locked in, the 4th Kabalega Independence Run has once again proven that community-driven initiatives can successfully turn historical memory into measurable, generational progress.

Triumph on the Track: Raymond Omara Claims Half-Marathon Glory and Land Title

The competitive spirit of the 4th Edition of the Kabalega Independence Run reached its peak when Raymond Omara crossed the finish line to win the premier 21-kilometre half-marathon category on October 10, 2026, in Hoima City. For his remarkable victory, Omara was awarded a grand prize: a free land title courtesy of Oilland Real Estate. Speaking on the milestone, the Oilland Real Estate manager noted that this reward forms a core part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), while committing to even greater support for future editions.

In addition to the grand prize, other race winners across various categories were rewarded with exciting prizes, including cash prizes, cooking gas units, and valuable packages generously provided by event sponsors and partners.

Adding to the excitement for the future, the Executive Director of the Kabalega Foundation, Dr. James Isagara Kisoro, announced that the upcoming 5th edition will be exceptionally grand, promising an even larger scale as the landmark milestone is celebrated.

For more details on the 4th Kabalega Independence Run results, seedling distribution schedules, and upcoming community projects, keep checking on www.kabalegafoundation.org.

📸 View the Full Event Photo Album: Access Photos Here  (still in progressive update)