By Ben Musanje
Airtel Money Uganda has entered into a strategic partnership with the Virunga Gorilla Marathon, becoming the official and exclusive payment partner for the 2026 edition of the event, in a move aimed at accelerating Uganda’s transition toward a cashless economy while strengthening conservation tourism and community development in Kisoro District.
The announcement was made during the official launch of the partnership ahead of the marathon scheduled for 30th May 2026 in Kisoro, a region widely regarded as one of Uganda’s most important conservation and tourism destinations.
State Minister for Tourism Martin Mugarra Bahinduka welcomed the growing scale of the marathon, noting its increasing impact on tourism promotion and community engagement.
“There is a big difference this year, and I can tell from the launch today. It’s much bigger than what we had last year, and I’m sure we’re going to get a bigger number than the 1,000 that we had in Kisoro last year,” said Minister Mugarra.
He credited the expansion of the event to strong private sector involvement, especially sponsors such as Airtel.
“But I think we owe that to the support given to us by the sponsors, I think Airtel being the lead sponsor,” he added.
The minister also urged increased corporate participation in conservation financing and climate action initiatives, warning that environmental challenges require broader collaboration beyond government.
“As government, we’ve done our part. It’s now time for you in the corporate world to come and support these causes,” he said. “We are doing this for the very Ugandans and their well-being.”
He further emphasized the role of conservation-linked tourism in carbon reduction efforts and community resilience, noting that awareness around environmental sustainability is steadily growing.
Airtel Money Managing Director Japhet Aritho, whose remarks were delivered by Hope Ekudu, Head of Operations for Airtel Money, said the partnership aligns with the company’s vision of advancing financial inclusion through digital solutions.
“At Airtel Money, we believe the future of financial transactions is digital, driven by simplicity, accessibility, and convenience,” the statement read. “This partnership brings that vision to life on a trusted and impactful platform.”
The partnership will see all marathon kit purchases processed exclusively through Airtel Money Merchant Pay, allowing participants to complete transactions using mobile phones by dialing 1859# or through the MyAirtel App.
Virunga Gorilla Marathon Team Lead Kenneth Kamukama Rashid described the partnership as a major step forward in improving efficiency, accessibility, and transparency in event management.
“We thank Airtel Money for always being innovative and for creating solutions that enhance flexibility and convenience,” he said. “This will significantly boost kit sales and improve transaction tracking.”
He added that the marathon is designed to connect people to Kisoro while promoting conservation and community development.
“Our runners will experience an unforgettable challenge as they pass through rainforests, rolling hills, and ancient lava fields while also engaging with the warmth and hospitality of local communities,” Kamukama said.
Race Director John Tibita, who has been instrumental in shaping the trail-running experience in Kisoro, emphasized that the marathon is not just a sporting event but a cultural and environmental experience rooted in trail running philosophy.
“Trail running is a culture, it is a community affair, it is a family affair,” said John Tibita. “It is about running through nature, not tarmac, and experiencing landscapes that relieve stress and reconnect people with the environment.”
He highlighted Kisoro as one of the most naturally gifted regions for trail running, noting its terrain, altitude, and biodiversity as ideal for sports tourism development.
“Uganda is blessed with such beautiful things, but it has not promoted them enough. Kisoro is one of those places that deserves global attention,” he said.
Tibita also stressed the marathon’s role in talent identification, urging greater investment in young athletes from high-altitude regions such as Kisoro.
“Why don’t we have talents emerging from Kisoro? The nutrition, the altitude, the environment are all perfect for world-class athletes,” he said.
State Minister for Tourism Martin Mugarra Bahinduka also underscored the importance of Kisoro’s conservation areas, urging communities to protect biodiversity while benefiting from tourism.
“Those of you in Kisoro are the first line of defense. You are protecting resources not only for Uganda but for the world,” he said.
The 2026 Virunga Gorilla Marathon will feature the 112-kilometre Ultra Marathon and the 42-kilometre Full Marathon, with organizers expecting increased participation following the introduction of cashless payments and rising regional interest.
Airtel Money concluded by reaffirming its commitment to digital transformation, financial inclusion, and sustainable development, saying it will continue to support initiatives that “power progress, inclusion, and a more connected Uganda.” (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
