In continuation of their efforts to preserve the vital water resource that sustains over 6 million livelihoods, Abahumuza Development Group is gearing up for another marathon following the successful inaugural Save River Rwizi Marathon in 2022.
The forthcoming marathon aims to build upon the achievements of the previous year and rally a wider range of stakeholders in the urgent need to conserve the river. Among the various threats faced by the river ecosystem, plastic pollution emerges as a major concern.
Statistics from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) reveal that plastic waste constitutes a significant portion of the country’s daily waste production, with over 600 tonnes generated each day. Unfortunately, only 40% of this waste is properly collected and disposed of, leaving the remaining 60% to find its way into the environment, causing numerous problems.
This 60% of waste contributes to the pollution of lakes and rivers, soil degradation, reduced agricultural fertility and productivity, and the blockage of drainage channels, ultimately resulting in the floods witnessed today.
Ramadhan Kimbugwe, representing Abahumuza Development Group, disclosed that the proceeds from this year’s marathon will be allocated to scaling up the plastic waste bunker innovation. This innovative solution aims to facilitate the proper disposal, collection, and recycling of plastic waste, which poses threats to human and aquatic life. The plan involves establishing 200 bunkers in Mbarara City, with a total capacity to collect 480 tonnes of plastic waste per year.
“We, therefore, call upon all stakeholders, including manufacturers, corporate entities, government agencies, local authorities, civil society organizations, environmentalists, youth groups, and citizens who care about nature, to embrace and support this initiative. The restoration of our river’s health benefits us all,” emphasized Ramadhan.
Scheduled for Sunday, July 30, 2023, at the Mbarara Golf Course grounds in Mbarara City, the marathon is organized in partnership with the Ministry of Water and Environment, NBS Television, Taasa Obutonde, Lato Milk, National Water and Sewerage Corporation, and Mbarara City Council, among others. Individuals interested in participating can register through
