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The Kids of Africa Run will return for the 10th edition on September 8, 2024, at Kids Pioneer School in Entebbe.
This year’s run was announced on Tuesday, August 27th, at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel.
I&M Bank Uganda is yet again partnering with Kids of Africa, for the 10th edition of the run which will feature categories ranging from 5km, 10km, and 21km, where top performers shall be rewarded with prizes per category.
I&M Bank, who sponsored the run in 2022, have boosted this year’s edition with Shs 5m, and have pledged further support by having a good number of their staff participate in the run.
The bank has also further committed to support the run next year. Each year, the proceeds of the event are designated a specific social project within sanitation in the local community.
Racheal Kulanyi, the I&M Bank Communications and Outreach Officer said, the bank’ support towards the run is for an essential cause to improve access to reusable sanitary pads and ensure girls stay in school.
“Our participation is a testament to our commitment to both community and gender equality. By joining the run and raising awareness, we hope to contribute to meaningful change and inspire others to take action as well,” Kulanyi explained.
The proceeds of this year’s run will go to Days for Girls, an NGO that seeks to eliminate the stigma and limitations associated with menstruation, so that women and girls have improved health, education, and livelihoods.
Esbern Budolfsen, the Deputy National Director Kids of Africa said, the event wasn’t just a fundraiser but rather a step towards a brighter future for many young girls.
“By spotlighting reusable sanitary pads, we’re tackling a barrier that prevents girls from staying in school and reaching their full potential. Our goal is to create lasting change and ensure that every girl has the opportunity to succeed. Together, we can make a difference in their lives and support the broader fight for gender equality,” Esbern said.
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Esbern, who also serves as the course director, applauded Ugandans for embracing runs with a cause.
“I think it’s a great culture, and of course, we invite everyone to participate in this event. This year, we expect over 1,000 runners to take part. The track is ready and in excellent condition for the race.”
The registration fee for the run is Shs 25,000 per head. The registration centres include Kids of Africa – Bwerenga village Entebbe, Total Namasuba 2 (Entebbe Road), Katabi Town Council Mayor’s office, and Divine saloon, at the Madison building, in Kawuku, and Abayita Ababiri branches.
Registration can also be done by visiting www.kidsofafrica-run.com.
This year’s run will be capped off with performances by top DJs, and music sensation Azawi as the headline act.
Last year’s run registered about 1000 participants, and the proceeds went into construction of modern toilets at both Kitala primary school and St Paul Bulaga primary school in Katabi Town Council, Wakiso district.
Kids of Africa have in the past hosted a couple of runs where proceeds were used for sanitation improvement in government schools; i.e Bugiri Public and St. Luke Nkumba Primary School, as well as provision of clean water through putting up boreholes in Bwerenga village, Kisubi Parish.
Other partners for this year’s run include Yako bank, Sheraton Kampala Hotel, Katabi Town Council, Kids Pioneer primary school, and Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF).