The serene Kabuhungu Hills in Rwashamire, Ntungamo District, roared to life today on May 24 2025 as thousands of runners, spectators, and coffee lovers gathered for the inaugural Coffee Marathon Uganda 2025, a spirited event aimed at uplifting rural women farmers who are the unsung heroes of Uganda’s coffee industry.

Held under the theme “Uplifting the Rural Coffee Woman out of Poverty,” the marathon was organized by Inspire Africa Group and aimed to raise UGX 2 billion to support women working across the coffee value chain many of whom remain trapped in poverty despite contributing to one of Uganda’s biggest export earners.

“This marathon is more than just a run; it is a movement for economic transformation,” said Dr Nelson Tugume, CEO of Inspire Africa. “We are running to change lives, especially those of rural women growing our coffee.”

From February 2024 to January 2025 alone, Uganda earned a record $1.6 billion (UGX 5.95 trillion) from coffee exports, shipping out 6.44 million bags. Yet, according to Inspire Africa, most of the rural women behind this success remain in deep-seated poverty, with limited access to land, markets, or training.

Aidah Kyamugisha, a smallholder farmer from Ntungamo who participated in the event, shared her struggles:

“We grow the coffee, we harvest it, but we earn the least. I came here to run with hope that things can change for women like me.”

Dr Tugume revealed that all profits from the marathon, including UGX 116 million in prize money, will go toward initiatives such as farmer training, cooperative strengthening, access to farm inputs, and improving market access for women coffee growers.

The event featured 5K, 10K, 21K, and 42K races, drawing over 5,000 runners and more than 100,000 spectators. It blended sport with advocacy, entertainment, and education.

“We have designed this event for both professionals and casual runners,” said Apollo Musherure, the technical organizer. “It is inclusive, festive, and purpose-driven.”

Long-distance running icon Dorcus Inzikuru served as the official ambassador, adding prestige and encouragement to the cause.

Beyond the track, the marathon transformed into a vibrant cultural festival complete with traditional performances, live coffee processing demonstrations, and workshops on sustainable farming techniques.

Amos Wekesa, CEO of Great Lakes Safaris, highlighted the marathon’s wider economic and tourism benefits:

“I encourage everyone to get involved because when we support events like this, the entire community benefits,” Wekesa said. “From farmers and shop owners to boda-boda riders and local vendors, everyone has something to gain.”

“Ntungamo is truly one of Uganda’s hidden gems. Its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality make it an unforgettable destination,” he added.

The marathon will be concluded with a music concert headlined by Diamond Platnumz, Uganda’s own Bebe Cool, and other musicians, turning the marathon into a celebration of rural resilience and national pride.

With every step run, song sung, and cup of coffee brewed, the event underscored a powerful message: that lasting transformation begins when communities come together to invest in the people behind the product.

For Ntungamo and Uganda at large, the marathon was more than a moment; it marked the beginning of a movement rooted in equity, empowerment, and homegrown pride.