Standard Chartered Bank Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to athletics, health, and sustainability by returning as a major sponsor for the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon.
This marks the fourth year in a row that the bank has backed the marathon, which takes place on August 23 in Kasese.
The bank is contributing UGX 150 million this year, most of it going directly to prize money for elite runners, athletes with disabilities, and standout local talent from Kasese.
The 42km marathon winners (men and women) will each receive UGX 10 million, while 21km champions will take home UGX 7 million. Runners finishing in the top six, as well as participants from the host region, will also receive cash rewards.
Standard Chartered Uganda CEO Sanjay Rughani said the marathon has had a ripple effect, not just on the running community, but within the bank itself.
“This is my third time launching the Rwenzori Marathon,” said Rughani. “Thanks to this partnership, many of our staff have become active runners. Kasese has changed. It’s gone from a quiet town to one that’s proudly known for running and opportunity.”
One of the marathon’s most celebrated success stories is Abel Chelangat. After winning the 2024 edition, Chelangat used his official time from the World Athletics-certified course to qualify for the Porto Marathon, where he emerged victorious. He is now part of Adidas’s global marathon team.
Beyond sport, the bank is also staying true to its climate goals. For the fourth straight year, Standard Chartered will participate in tree planting in Kasese, supporting reforestation efforts and promoting environmentally responsible sports tourism.
Rwenzori Marathon Team Lead Amos Wekesa welcomed the continued partnership.
“This marathon is about more than race day,” said Wekesa. “It’s about growing the next Abel Chelangat. It’s about restoring Uganda’s natural beauty. With partners like Standard Chartered, we get to do both.”
The 2025 marathon features four race options: the 42km full marathon, 21km half marathon, 10km run, and the 5km “vibes” run.
Set against the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains and Queen Elizabeth National Park, the event combines elite competition with scenic routes, drawing both professional athletes and everyday runners.
