In the crisp morning air of Kapchorwa’s rolling hills, a group of children can be seen sprinting barefoot along dusty paths, their laughter echoing through the serene countryside. Among them is 14-year-old Lemulet, a budding runner with dreams as vast as the Sebei region’s highlands. But for Lemulet, the upcoming Kawempe Mile Race is not just a chance to win cash prizes—it’s a golden opportunity to run against societal ills like gender-based violence and corruption, which have cast shadows over her community.
This year’s Kawempe Mile Race, slated for December 28 at the Teryet High Altitude Training Centre, carries a weighty theme: “To Fight Against Gender-Based Violence and Corruption in Sports.” Organizers have coupled the event with advocacy, using the race as a platform to address pressing social issues. Race Coordinator Mark Cherop underscores this mission: “Sports have the power to unite and heal, and we are determined to use this event to highlight challenges plaguing our communities.”
With generous prizes of up to UGX 1,000,000 for senior winners and UGX 300,000 for junior champions, the race has attracted athletes from far and wide. But its true appeal lies in accessibility—registration is free, and the mobile race format ensures that athletes from remote areas, who often face financial barriers, can participate. As race organizer Abdul Semu puts it, “We want to level the playing field. Talent, not circumstances, should determine success.”
The Kawempe Mile Race also serves as a poignant reminder of the scars left by gender-based violence, which has claimed the lives of promising athletes in the Sebei region. “A tree is known by its fruit, and a society by how it treats its most vulnerable,” remarked Kapchorwa’s Head of Communication, Benjamin Arap. The race’s theme resonates deeply with local communities, where efforts to uproot these social evils are gaining momentum.
Martin Mongusho, a partner of the Kawempe Mile Race, emphasized the importance of addressing gender-based violence. “We are committed to fighting against gender-based violence, which is a significant problem in our communities. We believe that sports can play a crucial role in promoting social change and empowering individuals.”
As Kapchorwa prepares to host this extraordinary event, it’s clear that the Kawempe Mile Race is more than a competition—it’s a marathon of hope. Like Lemulet and her peers sprinting towards brighter horizons, the race embodies the resilience and determination of a nation striving for justice and equality. Come December 28, the tracks will not only echo with the pounding of feet but also with the collective heartbeat of a community determined to outrun its challenges.
