Absa Bank Uganda has officially flagged off five Ugandan runners who will represent the country at the prestigious Absa Run Your City Series scheduled for September,24, 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The athletes were selected from among the top performers in the 2024 and 2025 Absa KH3-7 Hills Run, an annual event that mobilizes thousands of Ugandans in support of girl child education.
The five athletes set to travel are Brian Adams Ategeka, Evas Nassasira, Phillip Kiptoo, Collins Cherotich, and Annet Chesang. Three other winners—Isaac Masai, Hilda Atwine, and Keren Chemusto—will not be participating due to prior commitments.
The sponsored package covers flights, accommodation, and logistical support, allowing the athletes to focus on delivering top performances on the international stage.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, David Wandera, Managing Director of Absa Bank Uganda, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to nurturing local talent and promoting social impact through sport.
“During the 2024 and 2025 Absa KH3-7 Hills Runs, we promised that the winners would be sponsored to participate in the Absa Run Your City Series in Johannesburg. Today, I am glad that we are fulfilling that commitment,” Wandera said.
He further highlighted the social impact of the KH3-7 Hills Run, noting that the event has raised millions of shillings in support of girl child education across Uganda.
“We pride ourselves on being a force for good in the communities where we operate. As our runners set off to represent Uganda, we celebrate your dedication and spirit—carry our flag high and make Absa Bank Uganda proud.”
Now one of South Africa’s most prominent road running events, the Absa Run Your City Series spans five major cities and integrates family participation, corporate engagement, community investment, and elite-level competition. It has grown into a flagship event on the South African athletics calendar, giving both amateur and elite runners a chance to compete on the same platform.
Speaking on behalf of the runners, Brian Ategeka, one of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude to Absa for the opportunity.
“I want to thank Absa Bank Uganda for giving me this opportunity. I’m ready to compete. With God’s blessings, I hope to rise and represent Uganda on even bigger platforms. This is the start of my journey, and I believe I can grow into one of Uganda’s best athletes.”
In a symbolic gesture of recognition, Bakaima Real Estates, a partner sponsor of the 2025 KH3-7 Hills Run, also handed over a land title to Ategeka as the overall winner of the latest edition. The handover highlights the growing support ecosystem for Ugandan athletes and the meaningful rewards associated with the event.
