KAMPALA: Stanbic Bank Uganda has pledged UGX 20 million in support of the 3rd edition of Virunga Gorilla Marathon scheduled for Kisoro on November 21, 2026 under the theme ‘Running for Climate Action’.
Speaking at the kit handover ceremony on Tuesday, Diana Ondoga, Manager, Corporate Social Investment, reiterated the bank’s commitment to partnerships involved with environmental conservation.
“The cause of the run is focused on conservation in the Kisoro area, and we have opted to join the Virunga team in this noble cause. As we all know, as a country, we are experiencing adverse climate effects so every effort involved at restoration, at nurturing, at growing, we look forward to working with the team,” she said.
The forest strips in Kisoro, notably in Mgahinga and parts of Bwindi, are famous because the tree canopy hosts a large percentage of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas which are a big tourism draw. Kisoro also boasts of unique bamboo ecosystems.
Ondoga said, “We have a running club and the members are going to be present at the Virunga Marathon. This allows us to hit two birds with one stone. The first bird is the one on environmental conservation and tree planting. The second bird is on wellness of colleagues and of staff of Stanbic Bank.”
Kenneth Rashid Kamkama, CEO Virunga Gorilla Marathon said the event stands on three main pillars, promoting tourism in the area, supporting local businesses due to the influx of visitors, and talent spotting for exceptional athletes.
He said, “Last year we planted fruit trees. The same thing we’re doing this year, 2026. Stanbic Bank has been able to support us to plant these trees in different locations in Kisoro. We appreciate this support. We appreciate them for coming on board and for standing with this cause around conservation”.
Duncan Naluswa, Stanbic Run Club Captain said, “We are very delighted to be part of the Virunga Gorilla Marathon. It’s our second time being part of it. Last year we sent a team that really enjoyed the terrain, and this year they’ve promised us even more beautiful scenery.”
Race Director John Tibita said this year’s edition will feature a full marathon (42km), half marathon (21km), 10km, and 6km races. A new addition to this year’s edition is the 112-kilometre ultra-run, introducing trail running to the marathon.
Unlike road races, trail running takes participants through natural terrain, including steep climbs, rough paths, and changing landscapes that test both endurance and adaptability.
Tibita said runners will experience a unique route that passes through rainforest, rolling hills, and ancient lava fields, while also interacting with local communities, including the Batwa.
Last year the marathon attracted 1,000 participants, and this year the organisers aim to triple that number. Runners from across East Africa and beyond are expected. The goal is to grow the marathon into one of the region’s leading events while deepening its impact on conservation, tourism and community development.
Stanbic Bank’s conservation efforts also include internal measures to reduce the bank’s environmental footprint. In 2024, the bank recycled over 9,234 kilogrammes of single-use plastic bottles, and reduced internal paper usage by 39.6% through the adoption of digital banking platforms
Stanbic also partnered with Global Paper Limited to convert bank paper waste into eco- friendly products, and made UGX 62 billion in financing available to support green enterprises in agriculture, waste management, and renewable energy sectors.
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