By Jamila Kemigisa
The city of Fort Portal was abuzz with energy as more than 400 participants gathered for the Save River Mpanga Marathon, an event dedicated to raising awareness about the urgent need to protect River Mpanga from pollution and environmental degradation. The marathon, held under the theme “Save River Mpanga”, was championed by Dr. Guma Brian Emmanuel, Team Leader of the Albertine Management Zone, in collaboration with key stakeholders, including Hima Cement and the Ministry of Water and Environment.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Guma emphasized the significance of River Mpanga, which stretches approximately 200 kilometers from Kabarole to Lake George. He expressed concern over the escalating pollution levels caused by indiscriminate waste disposal into the river. “This marathon is more than a sporting event—it’s a vital campaign to raise awareness among communities living along the river’s course,” Dr. Guma remarked. “The more than 400 participants today are not just runners; they are ambassadors for this cause and will help spread the message to protect this critical water resource.”
Victor Mujuni, Community Relations Officer at Hima Cement, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to environmental conservation. He highlighted the dependence of Hima Cement on natural resources from the surrounding areas, including pozzolana from Kichwamba and Harugongo in Kabarole District. “Water is life. If River Mpanga continues to be polluted, the consequences will directly impact the surrounding communities and the environment,” Mujuni said. He noted that Hima Cement employs a back-filter system to ensure hazardous air components remain contained within their plant and are recycled in cement production. The company also supports reforestation efforts by distributing free tree seedlings.
Many participants expressed personal motivations for joining the marathon. Mbabazi Lilian, a resident of the area, shared her reasons for participating. “River Mpanga supplies water to my community. While I enjoy running and having fun, I am here because I care about this cause,” she said. Lilian warned that continued waste dumping could lead to severe flooding, endangering communities along the riverbanks.
The event also drew support from local leaders. Hon. Irene Linda, Woman Member of Parliament for Fort Portal City, called on citizens to take collective responsibility for protecting River Mpanga. “The government cannot do this alone. Everyone must play their part. Dumping waste and cultivating along riverbanks contributes to declining water levels, and if this continues, we risk losing the river altogether,” she cautioned. Hon. Linda encouraged every household to plant at least one multipurpose tree to aid in environmental restoration.
Guest of honor Bayole Stanley, the Resident City Commissioner (RCC) of Fort Portal, echoed the call for collective action. He emphasized the importance of shifting public attitudes toward environmental stewardship and underscored the need for strict enforcement of environmental protection laws. “We must hold accountable those who degrade our environment, ensuring they face the law. It is the only way to guarantee sustainability,” he stated.
The Save River Mpanga Marathon concluded with a strong commitment from all stakeholders to continue efforts aimed at protecting and restoring River Mpanga. Organizers and participants expressed hope that the growing awareness and collective action sparked by the event would lead to lasting environmental improvements in the region.
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