Uganda’s Premier Ultra-Challenge Marathon Receives Generous Backing from Carrefour
In a bid to bolster health and fitness awareness in Uganda, Carrefour, under the umbrella of Majid Al Futtaim, has announced a significant sponsorship of UGX 7 million for the Kyambogo Ultra Challenge Run. This annual event, touted as Uganda’s sole ultra-challenge marathon, is gearing up for its 14th edition on May 4, 2024, at the iconic Kyambogo University Cricket Oval.
The sponsorship aligns perfectly with Carrefour’s mission to prioritize the health and well-being of the communities it serves, fostering a culture of healthy living among Ugandans. As one of the country’s leading retail chains, Carrefour recognizes the importance of promoting an active lifestyle, and its support for this event underscores that commitment.
The Kyambogo Ultra Challenge Run, a fixture on Uganda’s sporting calendar since its inception in 2010, stands out as the pioneer of ultra-challenge marathons in the nation. Drawing participants from various running clubs across Kampala and beyond, the event serves as a rigorous fitness test for runners aspiring to compete in continental marathons.
Christophe Orcet, the Regional Director for East Africa at Majid Al Futtaim Retail, emphasized the company’s dedication to making a positive impact in the communities it operates in. He stated, “We remain committed to collaborating with our partners to support initiatives that promote health and well-being, while leveraging the power of sport to bring people together.”
Julius Nkuraija, CEO of the Kyambogo Ultra Challenge Run, expressed his delight at Carrefour’s sponsorship, highlighting the crucial role it plays in ensuring the success of the event. He stated, “We are delighted to have Carrefour on board as a sponsor for the 14th Kyambogo Ultra Challenge Run. Their generous support will play a crucial role in ensuring the success of the event and further promoting health and fitness awareness in Uganda.”
Nkuraija also hinted at the event’s future direction, noting its intention to embrace environmental protection causes as it continues to grow and gain momentum.
Carrefour’s sponsorship of the Kyambogo Ultra Challenge Run extends its ongoing community engagement efforts, exemplified by initiatives like the “Round Up Your Bill” campaign. Through this initiative, customers have contributed over UGX 290 million since its launch in 2021, supporting various projects aimed at assisting vulnerable groups within neighboring communities. Beneficiaries of these efforts include Peculiar Childcare Support, Kireka Home for Disabled Children, Mulago School for The Deaf, Kiswa Primary School, Ntinda School for the Deaf, and The Noah’s Ark Village.
As the countdown begins for the 14th edition of the Kyambogo Ultra Challenge Run, Carrefour’s sponsorship stands as a testament to its commitment to promoting health, fitness, and community well-being in Uganda.