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Four Ugandan runners are set to compete in the Absa Marathon Zambia in Lusaka on September 26 after earning the opportunity through their performances at the Absa KH3-7 Hills Run in Kampala.
Peter Akwech, Isaac Masaai, Sylvia Chelangat and Abate Tadelech secured the slots after finishing first and second in the men’s and women’s 25-kilometre categories at this year’s Absa KH3-7 Hills Run.
Absa Bank Uganda is sponsoring the athletes’ flights, accommodation and other logistical requirements for their participation in the race, which is certified by World Athletics.
The Absa Marathon Zambia features 5km, 10km, 21km and 42km categories and has attracted participants from across Africa. The event has also become a platform for athletes to compete alongside elite runners from the continent and beyond.
Speaking at the athletes’ flag-off ceremony in Kampala, Billy Bisanga, Head of Client and Digital Marketing at Absa Bank Uganda, said the initiative was aimed at giving Ugandan runners an opportunity to gain experience in international competition.
“Peter, Isaac, Sylvia and Abate earned this opportunity through their exceptional performances on one of Kampala’s most challenging running courses,” Bisanga said.
He said the bank intended to continue using the KH3-7 Hills Run to create opportunities for runners while supporting the social objectives associated with the event.
Kenya Airways, the official airline partner facilitating the athletes’ travel to Zambia, also expressed support for the initiative.
Felix Mwangangi, Kenya Airways Country Manager for Uganda, said the airline was pleased to facilitate the athletes’ travel as they represent Uganda at the regional competition.
Alice Gita Okecho, Hash Master of the Kampala Hash House Harriers, who spoke on behalf of the running community, congratulated the four athletes and encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity in Zambia.
The athletes’ participation in Zambia also extends the social-impact focus of the two Absa-branded running events.
In Uganda, proceeds from the Absa KH3-7 Hills Run support the Keep a Girl in School initiative, which seeks to address barriers that can prevent girls from remaining in school. These include challenges related to menstrual health and access to water, sanitation and hygiene facilities.
The 2026 Absa Marathon Zambia, meanwhile, will support initiatives aimed at improving access to assistive technology for people with disabilities.
The four Ugandan runners will compete in Lusaka on September 26 as part of an initiative linking athletics with opportunities for regional competition and social impact.
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