Fort Portal, Uganda – The city of Fort Portal was abuzz with energy as over 400 participants gathered for the Save River Mpanga Marathon, featuring 21km, 10km, and 5km races. The event aimed to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect River Mpanga from pollution and environmental degradation.
The marathon was not just a race but a vital campaign to educate communities along the river’s course about the importance of preserving this critical water source. Dr. Guma, one of the organizers, emphasized that the participants were more than just runners—they were ambassadors for the cause. “The more than 400 participants today are not just runners; they are ambassadors for this cause and will help spread the message to protect this vital water source,” he stated.
Dr. Guma highlighted the growing pollution in River Mpanga, which spans approximately 200 kilometers from Kabarole to Lake George. He pointed out that direct waste dumping has severely impacted the river’s health.
Victor Mujuni, Community Relations Officer at Hima Cement, reiterated the company’s commitment to environmental conservation. He noted that Hima Cement relies on natural resources from areas surrounding the river, such as pozollana from Kichwamba and Harugongo in Kabarole District, making the protection of the river essential for their operations.
Participants, including Mbabazi Lilian, shared their motivations for joining the marathon. “I participated because River Mpanga supplies water to many areas for human consumption. If we continue dumping waste into the river, it could lead to severe flooding, affecting nearby communities,” she warned.
Hon. Irene Linda, the Woman Member of Parliament for Fort Portal City, stressed that protecting River Mpanga is a collective responsibility. “Dumping waste and cultivating near riverbanks reduces water levels, and if this continues, we may lose the river altogether. I urge every household to plant at least one multipurpose tree to help restore our environment,” she urged.
Bayole Stanley, the Resident City Commissioner (RCC) of Fort Portal and the guest of honor, called for a shift in mindset toward environmental conservation. He emphasized the need for strict enforcement of laws against those who degrade the environment.
The Save River Mpanga Marathon concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to protect and restore the river, ensuring its sustainability for future generations. As awareness continues to grow, the hope is that collective action will lead to significant environmental improvements in the region.
