On 5th September 2026, hundreds of runners, walkers, families, and conservation partners gathered in Mbarara City for the fifth edition of the Rwizi Run.
Held under the theme “Stakeholders Championing the Restoration of River Rwizi,” the event combined sport, community spirit, and a clear call to action for one of southwestern Uganda’s most important waterways.
River Rwizi originates in the hills of Buhweju District and flows through Sheema, Rwampara, Mbarara, Kiruhura, Isingiro, and beyond.
This waterbody supplies water to Mbarara City and surrounding communities, supports livelihoods, and sustains ecosystems across the Ankole sub-region.
Yet more than 60% of its catchment remains degraded by encroachment, siltation, pollution, brick-making, unsustainable agriculture, and other pressures. Declining water levels threaten both people and nature.
The 2026 run, organised with the Ministry of Water and Environment and partners including WWF Uganda (World Wide Fund for Nature), Coca-Cola, Nile Breweries, Lato Milk, the International Crane Foundation, and local institutions, offered race distances from a 2 km family fun run to a full marathon.
WWF Uganda Country Director Ivan Tumuhimbise flagged off one of the races and underlined the shared responsibility of protecting the river for people, nature, and future generations.
Proceeds and awareness from the event support practical restoration work: wetland recovery at sites such as Katete and Kashanyarazi, riverbank tree and bamboo planting, community education, waste management, and alternative livelihoods for households living along the buffer zone.
In recent years, coordinated efforts have already restored hundreds of hectares of degraded land and kilometres of riverbank, engaged thousands of riverbank-owning households, and planted tens of thousands of trees.
For travellers, the story of River Rwizi offers a powerful entry point into responsible tourism in Uganda.
Visitors who explore the Mbarara City and Ankole region can support conservation by choosing operators that prioritise low-impact travel, community benefits, and environmental protection.
Walking or cycling near restored river sections, learning about wetland ecology, supporting local guides and eco-friendly lodges, and participating in tree-planting or clean-up initiatives turn a holiday into meaningful contribution.
Responsible Tourism Company works with communities and conservation partners across Uganda to design experiences that protect places like River Rwizi while delivering authentic cultural and nature encounters.
Whether you join a guided visit to the catchment, combine Mbarara City with Lake Mburo National Park, or support longer-term restoration projects, every choice helps keep this vital river flowing.
The 2026 Rwizi Run showed that sport, local leadership, government agencies, Non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and private partners can mobilise people around a shared resource.
Sustained action, restoring buffers, reducing pollution, planting indigenous and useful species, and offering viable livelihoods, remains essential. Travellers who visit Uganda with intention can become part of that solution.
About Mbarara City
Mbarara City, located in southwestern Uganda, is an important tourism and commercial hub offering visitors a blend of cultural experiences, local hospitality and access to some of the country’s popular attractions.
Known as a gateway to western Uganda’s tourism circuit, the city provides convenient access to Lake Mburo National Park, famous for zebras, giraffes, impalas and walking safaris, as well as cultural experiences within the Ankole region.
Visitors can explore the traditions of the Banyankole people, learn about long-horned Ankole cattle, enjoy local cuisine and discover the surrounding countryside.
With its hotels, restaurants, markets and transport connections, Mbarara City is a convenient stopover for travellers exploring Uganda’s wildlife, culture and scenic landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Rwizi Run?
The Rwizi Run is an annual sporting and awareness event in Mbarara City that raises funds and public support for the restoration and protection of River Rwizi. The 2026 edition was the fifth and featured distances from 2 km to 42 km.
Why is River Rwizi important?
River Rwizi is a critical water source for Mbarara City and several southwestern districts, supporting domestic use, agriculture, ecosystems, and livelihoods for hundreds of thousands of people.
How can travellers support River Rwizi conservation?
Choose responsible tourism operators, visit the region with low-impact practices, support community-based experiences, participate in approved planting or education activities, and spread awareness about the river’s challenges and solutions.
Who organised and supported the 2026 event?
The Ministry of Water and Environment led the effort with partners including WWF Uganda, local government, universities, corporate sponsors, and community groups.
What restoration progress has been made?
Recent coordinated work has restored significant areas of degraded land and riverbank, engaged local households in sustainable practices, and planted tens of thousands of trees and bamboo along the catchment.
Ready to experience Uganda the responsible way?
Contact Responsible Tourism Company today to plan a journey that supports River Rwizi conservation, local communities, and unforgettable wildlife and cultural experiences.
Visit our website or message us to design your sustainable Uganda itinerary. Every trip can help protect the places we love.
Call/WhatsApp: +256 704 023 485