HON. MARTIN BAHINDUKA LAUNCHES 2ND EDITION OF THE VIRUNGA GORILLA MARATHON

Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities makes remarks during the 2nd Edition of the Virunga Gorilla Marathon on Wednesday at Serena Hotel in Kampala.

Kampala, Uganda, March 19, 2025: Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities officially launched the 2nd Edition of the Virunga Gorilla Marathon on Wednesday at Serena Hotel in Kampala. The theme for this year's marathon is “Run for the Green: Every Step Plants a Tree,” which aligns with the climate change mitigation agenda.

The marathon will take place on May 31, 2025, at Mayor's Gardens in Kisoro and continues its mission of promoting wildlife conservation, with a special focus on gorilla preservation.

During the launch, Minister Bahinduka expressed his commitment to supporting the Virunga Gorilla Marathon to ensure its success in promoting gorilla conservation and global tourism. He highlighted the beauty and natural attractions of Kisoro, such as Gahiza Island on Lake Mutanda and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, as well as the potential for tourism to create youth employment opportunities.

Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities during a media Q&A at the launch.

He also acknowledged the tireless efforts of the marathon organizers and partners, including the Gulu Marathon, Rwenzori Marathon, Kabaka Run, Kampala 7 Hills Marathon, Uganda Wildlife Marathon, and MTN Marathon, in raising Uganda’s profile by attracting thousands of participants to the country.

Additionally, Minister Bahinduka pledged to participate in the marathon himself by running 10 kilometers on May 31, 2025, and encouraged everyone to join in this important cause for gorilla conservation.