Kids of Africa Run: I&M Bank Back Aboard For 10th Edition

The much-anticipated Kids of Africa Run will return for its 10th edition on September 8, 2024, at Kids Pioneer School in Entebbe.

The annual charity run, which has become a staple event for both fitness enthusiasts and philanthropists alike, was officially launched on Tuesday at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel.

Each year, the Kids of Africa Run dedicates its proceeds to a specific social cause within the local community.

This year’s focus is on creating awareness and promoting the use of reusable sanitary pads, a crucial initiative aimed at keeping girls in school.

The proceeds from this year’s event will go directly to Days for Girls, a non-governmental organization (NGO) committed to eliminating the stigma and challenges associated with menstruation, thereby enhancing the health, education, and livelihoods of women and girls.

“This event is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a step towards a brighter future for many young girls,” said Esbern Budolfsen, the Deputy National Director of Kids of Africa and the course director for the run.

“By spotlighting reusable sanitary pads, we’re tackling a barrier that prevents girls from staying in school and reaching their full potential. Our goal is to create lasting change and ensure that every girl has the opportunity to succeed. Together, we can make a difference in their lives and support the broader fight for gender equality.”

Budolfsen also expressed gratitude to Ugandans for embracing the culture of running for a cause, noting that this year’s event is expected to attract over 1,000 participants. “The track is ready and in excellent condition for the race,” he added.

This year’s run will feature three categories: 5km, 10km, and 21km, with top performers in each category set to receive exciting prizes.

I&M Bank Uganda has once again partnered with Kids of Africa to sponsor this year’s run. The bank, which previously sponsored the event in 2022, has generously contributed Shs 5 million towards this year’s edition.

Additionally, I&M Bank has pledged further support by encouraging participation from a significant number of their staff members in the run, and has committed to supporting the event next year as well.

Racheal Kulanyi, the Communications and Outreach Officer for I&M Bank commented: “We are proud to support the Kids of Africa run once again, especially for such an essential cause. By improving access to reusable sanitary pads, we aim to ensure that girls can stay in school.”

“Our participation is a testament to our commitment to both community and gender equality.”

The registration fee for the run is set at Shs 25,000 per participant. Registration can be completed at various centers, including Kids of Africa in Bwerenga village, Entebbe, Total Namasuba 2 on Entebbe Road, the Katabi Town Council Mayor’s office, Divine Saloon at the Madison building in Kawuku, and at Abayita Ababiri branches.

Participants can also register online by visiting www.kidsofafrica-run.com.

This year’s run will be capped off with performances by top DJs and music sensation Azawi as the headline act, promising an exciting and vibrant conclusion to the event.

Last year’s run saw approximately 1,000 participants, with proceeds funding the construction of modern toilets at Kitala Primary School and St. Paul Bulaga Primary School in Katabi Town Council, Wakiso District.

In previous years, proceeds have also been used for sanitation improvements in government schools and for providing clean water through the installation of boreholes in Bwerenga village, Kisubi Parish.

Other partners for this year’s run include Yako Bank, Sheraton Kampala Hotel, Katabi Town Council, Kids Pioneer Primary School, and the Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF).