Kampala, Uganda – August 17, 2025 – NCBA Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing education, inclusion, and community empowerment through its sponsorship of MakRun 2025, which for the first time featured a full 42.2 km professional marathon alongside the 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km races.

This year’s event drew thousands of participants, including elite athletes, students, alumni, and fitness enthusiasts, firmly establishing MakRun as one of Uganda’s leading sports and charity events.

In July, NCBA pledged UGX 1.45 billion over the next five years to support the marathon and the impact projects it funds. Proceeds from this year’s race will go towards building a Disability Support Unit, a new Student Centre, and initiatives that promote student health and well-being.

“Our commitment to the MakRun is inspired by Makerere University’s values and vision, which resonate strongly with us at NCBA. This partnership perfectly aligns with our ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) agenda, where we champion education, inclusion, and sustainable community development,” said Mark Muyobo, NCBA Bank CEO.

Muyobo hailed the participation of students with disabilities, whose determination and resilience moved runners and spectators.
“Their courage reminds us that disability is not a limitation, but a different pathway to greatness. At NCBA, we are proud to run alongside them, support them, and ensure they have every opportunity to succeed,” he added.

To widen access and boost participation, NCBA integrated its MuzuriPay platform, making registration and donations seamless for alumni, friends, and supporters both locally and abroad. With a fundraising target of UGX 2 billion, the bank has rallied staff, customers, and partners to contribute to the cause.

With its expanded scope, MakRun 2025 has redefined university sports in Uganda, proving that sports can be a powerful driver of empowerment, inclusion, and community transformation.

Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, expressed gratitude to NCBA for its support and urged Ugandans to participate in the MakRun for charitable causes.

“We are deeply thankful for the backing of our partners, particularly NCBA, which has made significant investments in the MakRun. I also want to challenge everyone to join us and run in support of meaningful causes like this,” he said.

Prof. Nawangwe emphasized that the run is part of a broader university initiative to bring together academics, students, and the public in fostering social good.

Organized annually by Makerere University, the event has become one of Uganda’s largest inclusive runs, welcoming participants of all abilities.

As the country’s oldest and most prestigious institution of higher learning, Makerere University has in recent years placed inclusive development at the heart of its long-term strategic vision.

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About NCBA Bank Uganda

NCBA Bank Uganda Limited is a subsidiary of NCBA Group PLC, East Africa’s third-largest bank with an asset base of UGX 960 Billion and a strong liquidity profile. Formed from NIC and CBA Banks in 2020, NCBA combines extensive corporate and retail banking experience with leading innovations, offering products from mobile banking, asset finance to tailored investment solutions. Focused on relationship management and customer success, NCBA empowers clients to achieve financial goals while supporting regional economic growth.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Edgar Tusiime

Head, Marketing, Communications & Citizenship

Email: Edgar.Tusiime@ncbagroup.com |Website: https://ncbagroup.com/ug