The 14th Annual MTN Kampala Marathon Raised 600 Million UGX Towards Charity
Big yellow telecom firm; MTN Uganda has today announced that 600 million UGX (roughly USD$168,000) was raised as a result of the overwhelming (at least 20,000) participants that turned-up for the 14th annual MTN Kampala Marathon to support – either improving Komamboga and Kiswa Maternal Health Centers or Reducing Child Exposure to Cancer.
In the last 13 editions, all contributions would go to a single cause. However, on realizing that participants also needed to be part of the selection process, two causes were provided.
“Kampala was a sea of yellow, like one of the newspapers described marathon day. Indeed people did turn up in large numbers to represent their cause. The result of this overwhelming representation was that 600 million UGX was collected, which will go a long way in improving access to healthcare and reduce exposure to cancer,” Wim Vanhelleputte, CEO MTN Uganda, said at a press media briefing at Nyonyi Gardens, Kampala.
“Seeing people turning up in such large numbers shows that they have a spirit of giving. By being able to give, the participants were also able to run, compete against friends, spend time out with family and also have fun. The next phase will now be ensuring that the work starts on ensuring that what was promised is delivered,” he added.
At least 56% of participants selected to support the maternal health cause and 44% selected the replacement of asbestos roofing in schools. Over the last 13 editions, the teleco firm has supported causes like improving sanitation in Kampala, providing water facilities to the Karamoja sub-region and provision of “mama” delivery kits in Northern Uganda.
“We shall continue to update the participants on every stage of the proceeds for the MTN Kampala Marathon. Next, we shall be handing-over the proceeds of the marathon and hoping that there will be a positive impact to the affected people,” said Olivier Prentout, the MTN CMO.[related-posts]
