Official launch of the 2026 Gulu City Marathon at Sheraton Kampala Hotel

Overview:

The registration fee for the 2026 Gulu City Marathon is fixed at Ug.Shs 60,000 per person that comes with a running kit and a finishers’ medal.

  • Event: 3rd Gulu City Marathon
  • Date: Saturday, 5th December 2026
  • Distances: 42KM, 21KM, 10KM, 5KM (Fun Run & Wheel Chair Category)
  • Registration fee: Ug.Shs  60,000  per head
  • Theme: Run to raise HIV & AIDS Awareness

The third edition of the annual Gulu City Marathon will take place on Saturday, 5th December 2026 with the start and finishing point at the famous Kaunda ceremonial grounds.

This season ending marathon was officially launched at the La Terrasse Garden Lounge of Sheraton Hotel Kampala on Thursday, 30th July 2026, hosted by the Rotary Club of Kampala.

Hon Norbert Mao and the organizers pose for a group photo

Organizers of the marathon led by the vision bearer Francis Gimara, Chairperson Mark Ongom, board member Amos Wekesa, organizers, sponsors, running clubs representatives and members of the media all graced the colourful launch.

Hon. Norbert Mao, the minister of Justice and Constitutional affairs graced the official launch as chief guest.

“I rally upon the different people to come in big numbers for the 2026 Gulu City Marathon. This is a great opportunity to visit Gulu city and also run for a good cause of raising awareness about the deadly HIV/AIDS pandemic” Hon Mao, also the Member of Parliament of Laroo Pece remarked.

Official launch of the 2026 Gulu City Marathon at Sheraton Kampala Hotel

After making a significant contribution to the Martin Aliker skilling center last year, the focus swiftly switches to the HIV & AIDS Awareness drive.

“Gulu is envisaged, celebrated and invested in. It is place of history and hospitality. We welcome the people to take part in the Gulu City Marathon this December as we raise awareness against the HIV/AIDS pandemic.” Francis Gimara, the convenor of Gulu City Marathon hinted.

Hon Norbet Mao greets Uganda Baati’s Jackie Tahakanizibwa

Safal Uganda Baati foundation in collaboration with the local health care providers led by the regional referral hospital and city health department will still organize a three day medical camp like during the second edition in 2025.

“Last year, we were able to deliver comprehensive healthcare services to 4796 individuals from Gulu City and the surrounding villages. Diagnostic testing, treatment, immunization and conseling services were all offered.” Jackie Tahakanizibwa, head of corporate and external affairs at Uganda Baati spoke.

Hon. Norbert Mao, the minister of justice and constitutioal affairs

Toyota by Cfao returns among the major sponsors for the event. Just like last year, the Toyota lead cars will open the way for the leading pack across all the race events in the 42KM, 21KM, 10KM and 5KM categories.

At the launch, the Rotary Club of Kampala was offered with Ug.Shs 10,000,000, a modest contribution from the 2025 edition.

The registration fee is fixed at Ug.Shs 60,000 per person that comes with a running kit and a finishers’ medal.

David Isabirye is a senior staff writer for Kawowo Sports where he covers most of the major events.

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