David GOMBE
KCB Bank Uganda has officially launched the 2026 edition of the KCB Kyambogo Ultra Run, a race that has evolved from a local fitness challenge into a premier gateway for international athletics scheduled to take place on 2nd May 2026 at the Kyambogo University Cricket Oval Grounds.
Founded in 2010 as Uganda’s pioneering ultra-endurance event, the run is now widely recognised as the ultimate local proving ground for athletes aspiring to conquer the Comrades Marathon, the world’s oldest and largest ultra-marathon held annually in South Africa.
This year, the run carries a profound social weight. Beyond the pursuit of physical limits, KCB Bank and the Kyambogo Ultra Run organisers have dedicated the 2026 edition to raising awareness and support for students with disabilities within Kyambogo University. The event aims to highlight the barriers faced by these students and foster a campus environment defined by accessibility and empowerment.
KCB Bank Uganda has partnered with the Kyambogo Ultra Run Challenge since 2024, anchored in a shared belief that good health is fundamental to a productive and thriving society. This year, they will be sponsoring the run with 150,000,000 Ugandan shillings. Through this partnership, the bank continues to support initiatives that encourage Ugandans to adopt more active lifestyles while also providing a platform for athletes to challenge their limits.
Speaking at the launch, Managing Director Edgar Byamah highlighted the broader impact of the initiative:
“At KCB Bank, we believe that building strong communities and inclusivity starts with investing in the well-being of our people. At a time when many are becoming less physically active and increasingly disconnected from the community, platforms like the Kyambogo Ultra Run play a critical role in promoting healthier lifestyles and bringing communities together.
We have made it simple and convenient for everyone to be part of the Kyambogo Ultra Run. Participants can register and purchase their kits easily through KCB Pay by dialling *244*9# and entering the merchant code 124810. This is part of our commitment to leveraging digital solutions to enhance customer experience and accessibility.”
Kyambogo Ultra Run CEO Julius Nkuraija welcomed the continued partnership:
“KCB Bank’s support has been instrumental in shaping the Kyambogo Ultra Run into a distinctive fitness challenge that promotes wellness, discipline and resilience. Beyond the run, it is building a strong community and fostering a culture of consistency and personal growth across our communities, which drove us to use this year’s platform to bring awareness to the students with disabilities at the university.”
KCB Bank’s involvement in the Kyambogo Ultra Run forms part of its broader commitment to supporting sports development in Uganda, alongside initiatives in golf, motorsport, rugby and volleyball, as well as community engagement programmes.
The 2026 edition will feature three race categories 50km, 25km, and 10km, catering to both seasoned and aspiring endurance runners who use it as a training base for the Comrades, which happens annually in South Africa. The first wave will flag off at 6:00 AM from the Kyambogo University Cricket Oval Grounds.
As preparations for race day continue, KCB Bank Uganda remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote healthier communities, inclusivity, strengthen social connections and create opportunities for individuals to thrive.