Rocco Paco receives shs10m from Gulu City marathon organizers

Rocco Paco, a youth-focused education initiative under the Dero-Kwan program, has received a shs10 million reward from the organizers of the Gulu City Marathon as earlier pledged during the launch of its second edition.

The announcement was made during the official launch of the 2nd edition of the Gulu City Marathon, scheduled to take place on December 6, 2025, starting from Kaunda Grounds in Gulu City. The event targets over 1,000 participants across Uganda and beyond.

The inaugural edition of the Gulu City Marathon was held on December 7, 2024, under the theme “Running for Culture and Heritage.” It was spearheaded by the First and Furious Running Club based in Kampala, as a response to growing interest in expanding the Gulu runs.

The maiden event attracted more than 500 participants, including persons with disabilities, who competed in 42km, 21km, 10km, and 5km races.

This year’s marathon aims to raise funds for the Martin Aliker Training Institute, a youth skilling and empowerment project.

Organizers hope to use the event to celebrate Gulu’s cultural diversity and resilience, and to transform the region’s image from one associated with conflict to one of peace, development, and opportunity.

Counsel Francis Gimara, chairperson of the marathon’s steering committee, said the second edition will be “bigger and better,” targeting 1,000 runners — double the number from the previous year.

He emphasized that part of the proceeds would be donated to educational initiatives aimed at empowering the youth of Gulu.

“We pledged to give 10 percent of the marathon’s profits to Rocco Paco under the Dero-Kwan initiative to help revamp the lost glory of education in Northern Uganda,” Counsel Gimara explained.

He also announced plans to construct a skilling center in Abole Cell under the Aliker Martin Foundation, as part of the marathon’s long-term goal to support education and economic development in the Acholi sub-region.

“Beyond the breathtaking scenic views participants will enjoy, the marathon offers a chance to contribute to the local economy and promote Acholi’s rich heritage on the global map,” Gimara added.

Prof. Sam Kinyera Obwoya, Executive Director of Rocco Paco, expressed deep appreciation to the Gulu City Marathon organizers for their generous donation.

He emphasized that the shs10 million would go a long way in supporting scholarship programs under Dero-Kwan, which currently supports 65 students and pupils.

“We want to move away from the dependency mindset that grew during the IDP camp era. We are now focused on long-term solutions like education and self-reliance,” said Prof. Obwoya.

He added that the funds will not only support school fees but also help restore hope and nurture the next generation of leaders, innovators, and peacebuilders in the Acholi sub-region.

Prof. Obwoya also assured the public of full accountability and transparency in the utilization of the marathon funds, underscoring the importance of creating lasting impact through education.

Alfred Okwonga, Mayor of Gulu City Council, pledged the full support of the City Council towards the marathon and its social causes. He said the event would foster social inclusion, regional cooperation, and youth empowerment, while promoting health and fitness in the community.

“This marathon is an opportunity to attract runners and tourists to our unique cultural sites. It will help position Gulu City on the international marathon calendar and raise awareness about our heritage,” Mayor Okwonga noted.

He urged the people of Gulu to rally behind the event and turn it into a powerful platform for community pride and international recognition.