The Gulu City Marathon is back for its second edition. It was officially launched Monday, June 16, 2025, at Kampala Club—less than six months before race day.
Set for Saturday, December 6, the marathon will start and end at Kaunda Grounds in Gulu City.
Hon. Andrew Ojok Oulanyah, Member of Parliament for Omoro County, officiated the launch.
The marathon is organized by the Great North Run Company and is expected to draw more than 1,000 participants. Its theme: Running for Culture and Heritage.
Organizers say the event is more than a race. It’s a tribute to the region’s past, a nod to its recovery, and a push for unity.
“The marathon will showcase Gulu’s rich cultural diversity such as local traditions, music, and art,” said Francis Gimara, one of the event’s organizers. “A cultural festival will be organized a day before the marathon at Kaunda Grounds… featuring traditional Acholi music, dance, and storytelling.”
He said the gala would highlight the need to preserve cultural heritage while bringing the community together.
Hon. Oulanyah called the event a reflection of Gulu’s journey from war to rebuilding.
“The Gulu City Marathon is a celebration of the resilience of Gulu,” he said. “The emergence of Gulu City as one of the best cities in Uganda after war speaks to a resilient spirit… The course takes runners through Gulu’s historic sites, scenic landscapes, and vibrant neighborhoods, offering a unique urban-rural experience.”
Part of the proceeds—10%—will go to the Martin Aliker Training Institute, a charitable program focused on youth skills and empowerment.
The route will pass landmarks like the Gulu War Memorial and the Gulu City Main Market. Organizers say the flat terrain makes it ideal for personal bests.
Four races will be held: a full marathon (42 km), half marathon (21 km), 10 km, and a 5 km fun run. All finishers will receive medals.
Seasoned marathoner Amos Wekesa believes the event could boost the local economy and raise the region’s tourism profile.
“The Gulu City Marathon, like many other marathons, is one that will create many opportunities for the people,” Wekesa said. “It is also one that will boost tourism in the area.”
He pointed to Fort Patiko—once a garrison during the slave trade era—as a nearby attraction. “Tourism aside, running is a health benefit for everyone. And if you don’t have a healthy population, you won’t have a healthy economy,” he added.
A post-race recovery zone with massages, refreshments, and stretching areas will be set up. Local performers will headline a cultural celebration at the finish line.
Registration is open at UGX 60,000 per person. Each runner receives a branded T-shirt and a string bag.
Patience Aguti, General Manager at Swangz Avenue, said the event’s value goes beyond sport.
“It is an opportunity to shine spotlight on northern Uganda, resilience, tradition, and community as a whole,” she said. “This promises to be bigger and better… attracting runners, tourists, culture lovers, vendors, and people in and outside the country.”
“As Swangz Avenue, we are proud to be the event’s production [partner]. Our mission this year is to bring Gulu Marathon with world-class event. We are also intentional about amplifying spirit and energy of the region.”
