By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu
MBARARA
The third annual Save River Rwizi Marathon took place on 28th July,2024 at Booma golf course grounds in Mbarara,with hundreds of participants joining forces to raise awareness about the plight of River Rwizi, which is at risk of drying up due to environmental degradation. The event was organized by the Abahumuza Development Group, in partnership with the Ministry of Water, Lato Milk, UPDF, and other stakeholders.
The marathon aimed to highlight the importance of preserving River Rwizi and its surrounding wetlands, which are crucial for the water supply and ecosystem of Mbarara city and neighboring areas. Aaron Ikara, representing the chairman of the Abahumuza Development Group, emphasized the need for collective action to protect the river and its catchment areas.
Simon Peter Weredwong, Conservation Manager at WWF in the Ministry of Water, who was the guest runner, warned that if environmental degradation, siltation, and sand mining are not addressed, the region will face severe water scarcity and pollution. He announced that WWF has committed to providing 50,000 tree seedlings and extracting water hyacinth to produce fertilizers.
The event featured three races: 21km, 10km, and 5km. The winners of the 21km race were Kibet Oscar, Ndiema Leonard, and Biryomumaisho Mark, while Cherop Rebecca emerged as the best female runner. Kwataho Rodgers, a person with a disability, finished the 10km race in 34th position, encouraging others with disabilities to participate in sports.
Wetdwong revealed that river Rwizi serves water to the manufacturing plants around Mbarara and other areas which may affect the country economically if the river dries. He also not that if the issue of water pollution is not addressed, the population is likely to consume products that maybe unclean as a result of polluted water hence causing health related complications.
Dr. Calist Tindimugaya, who was the chief guest representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water and Environment, congratulated participants and organizers, emphasizing the need for joint efforts to restore the river banks.
He noted that the event will be followed by a hive of post-marathon activities, including the planting of 50,000 bamboo trees along the river banks to control erosion and preserve the soil. He urged communities to stop cultivating on river banks, which puts the river at risk of drying up and affects agricultural productivity.
The Save River Rwizi Marathon has become an annual event, bringing together runners, conservationists, and community members to promote environmental conservation and protect Uganda’s vital water resources.
