More than 8,000 runners, families, fitness enthusiasts, corporates and organised running clubs took over Kampala on Sunday for the 2026 Absa KH3–7 Hills Run, making it the biggest edition of the event yet.
Participants competed in the 5km, 10km and signature 25km races, taking on the steep climbs and descents across Kampala’s iconic seven hills in one of Uganda’s toughest urban endurance challenges.
The event, flagged off by Sylvia Mulinge, CEO of MTN Uganda, alongside David Wandera, Managing Director of Absa Uganda, and Alice Gita Okecho, Hash Master of Kampala Hash House Harriers, has continued to grow as a leading fitness and purpose-driven sporting event.
Now in its fourth year, the run has expanded from 6,000 participants in 2025 to over 8,000 this year, attracting its largest number of sponsors and partners to date.
Beyond competition, the event continued its mission of supporting initiatives that help keep girls in school and enable them pursue their dreams.
“What we witnessed today goes beyond a run. It shows what is possible when communities, corporates, families and sports enthusiasts unite behind a shared cause. The enthusiasm around this year’s event reflects Uganda’s growing wellness culture and a shared commitment to helping more girls stay in school,” said David Wandera.
The 25km Seven Hills Challenge once again tested runners’ endurance, with participants navigating Kampala’s demanding terrain while earning commemorative wristbands for every hill conquered.
Peter Akwech won the men’s category in 1:21:40, while Sylvia Chelangat emerged top in the women’s race after clocking 1:46:55.
The event also offered top performers a chance to compete at the 2026 Absa Black Star Marathon in Accra, Ghana, with the top two male and female finishers in the Seven Hills Challenge earning slots to represent Uganda.
Helen Basuuta Nangonzi, Marketing Director at Absa Bank Uganda, said the Ghana marathon opportunity was intended to make the event more meaningful for runners.
“One of the things that makes the Absa KH3–7 Hills Run unique is that we are rewarding participants not only with prizes, but also with experiences. Through the Absa Black Star Marathon, Ugandan runners get an opportunity to represent their country and experience another part of Africa through sport,” she said.
The overall winner of the 25km challenge received UGX 10 million, while the top male and female finishers also walked away with land titles courtesy of Bakayima.
“The seven hills course is never easy. It pushes you physically and mentally, but the atmosphere today was incredible. We were also running for a great cause to help keep girls in education,” said Peter Akwech.
“Winning means a lot, especially knowing we are running for something bigger. The opportunity to compete in Ghana makes it even more special,” added Sylvia Chelangat.
Alice Gita Okecho said the event had become an important driver of organised running in Uganda.
“We have seen remarkable growth not only in participation, but also in how seriously Ugandans are embracing running and wellness. More clubs are training consistently, more families are participating, and the event continues to grow Uganda’s running culture while supporting a meaningful cause,” she said.
Children also participated in family-friendly fitness activities as the event promoted active living and wellness.
The day ended with performances from Azawi, Winnie Nwagi, King Saha and Dax Vibez, blending sport, entertainment and philanthropy in a celebration of community impact.
This year’s edition was supported by more than 22 sponsors and partners, making it the biggest and most rewarding Absa KH3–7 Hills Run so far.
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