By Brian Makawa
MBALE
Hundreds of different participants turned up on Sunday, 16th March, 2025 for the Save River Manafwa Marathon, organized by the Ministry of Water and Environment.
The event, held in Mbale city, aimed to raise awareness about the importance of conserving River Manafwa, a vital water source for millions of people in eastern Uganda.
The marathon was part of the Ministry’s efforts to promote sustainable water management practices and protect the environment in commemoration of the water week that happens every year and this years’ Theme is “Water and environment for a peaceful and sustainable future.”
The marathon raised awareness about the importance of water conservation and sustainable practices.
River Manafwa, originating from Mount Elgon, flows through several districts, including Bududa, Manafwa, Mbale, and Butaleja, before joining the Mpologoma River, which empties into Lake Kyoga.
The Ministry of Water and Environment officials, led by the Minister, Eng Maximo Twinomuhangi the Team Leader Kyoga Water Management Zone, graced the occasion, emphasizing the need for collective action to protect Uganda’s water resources.
“We are thrilled to see so many people turning up for this noble cause, River Manafwa is a lifeline for our communities, and it’s our responsibility to ensure its sustainability for future generations,” he said.
He said, the Save River Manafwa Marathon is expected to become an annual event, with plans to expand its scope and reach more communities in the coming years.
The marathon was flagged off by the Common Wealth Gold Medalist Moses Kipsiro, who also participated in the event.
Moses Kipsiro encouraged participants to always love athletics as one way to keep their bodies healthy but also conserve the environment through planting trees.
“The Save River Manafwa Marathon is a great initiative, which will help to raise awareness about the importance of protecting our water sources,” said Kipsiro
The event was sponsored by several organizations, including Water Aid, Uganda Red Cross Society, National Forestry Authority Innovation Africa, Caritas, DFCU Bank and several local businesses among others.
Eng. Nuwamanya Gideon from the Ministry of Water and Environment Mbale Office, said they organized the marathon to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the river Manafwa and its catchment area through adopting to new farming practices and planting of bamboo along river Manfwa.
Katami Base, the Mbale Vice Chairperson urged the Local communities to actively participate in the showcasing their commitment to environmental conservation.
She pledged support as District leaders in encouraging locals to conserve and protect their water sources.
