Ntungamo District became the epicenter of celebration and economic opportunity as Inspire Africa Group (IAG) organized the vibrant Coffee Renaissance Fest at the Africa Coffee Park in Rwashamaire.
The event featured a range of engaging activities, including the Coffee Business and Investment Forum, coffee barista competitions, a marathon, and a lively music concert, drawing tens of thousands of attendees from across the region.
A diverse crowd from investors, business magnates, corporate entities, and celebrities to coffee farmers, service providers, and enthusiastic locals, gathered to celebrate and explore opportunities within Uganda’s coffee industry.
“Uganda ranks among the world’s top coffee producers. Our next focus is adding real value to our coffee. The Africa Coffee Park in Ntungamo is strategically positioned to lead this transformation,” said Dr. Tugume during the Business Forum.
Thrilling Marathon Showcases Ntungamo’s Terrain
Taking advantage of Ntungamo’s high-altitude conditions ideal for long-distance racing, the event featured a highly anticipated 42km marathon.
In the men’s race, Isaac Masai from Kween emerged victorious with a time of 2:20:86. Isaac Kibet finished second at 2:21:33, and Alex Chesuro claimed bronze. Leonard Chemonges and Alex Mutai rounded out the top five.
In the women’s 42km, 28-year-old Merceline Chelangat took gold, followed by Emily Chebet and Peruth Chemusto.
The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, officiated the medal ceremony for the 42 KM men’s race.
Other Race Highlights:
10 KM Men’s Race: Silas Rotich (20, Kapchorwa) took gold, followed by Jabeth Arapsatya and Abra Cherotich.
10 KM Women’s Race: Kerine Cherop from Bukwo topped the race, with Ariziki Chelangat (18) and Edinah Nemigisha completing the podium.
21 KM Men’s Race: Abel Chebet (32) claimed victory ahead of Mark Kiptoo and Peter Akwech. Feb Chelogoi and Eluid Cherop finished fourth and fifth, respectively.
21 KM Women’s Race: Rachael Chebet Zena (29) won with a time of 1:21:34. She was followed by Esther Chekwemoi (28) and Saibi Chebet (21). The top ten included Patricia Chekwemboi, Dorcus Ajok, Mercy Chelangat, Annet Chesang, Joy Chepkwemoi, Glory Chebet, and Daphine Cherotich.
“Ntungamo’s steep hills were a challenge, but it was a race worth running. I commend the organizers,” said Zena after her win.
Star-Studded Concert Caps the Day
The celebration concluded with an electrifying music concert featuring Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platnumz, Rwanda’s The Ben, Uganda’s Bebe Cool, Eddy Kenzo, Sister Charity, Ray G, Jackie Kazaire, and emerging talents.
Dr. Tugume announced that the Coffee Renaissance Fest will become an annual event.
Coffee Marathon Prize Winners
42 KM
Men:
Gold: Isaac Masai – UGX 10,000,000
Silver: Isaac Kibet – UGX 7,500,000
Bronze: Alex Chesuro – UGX 5,000,000
Women:
Gold: Merceline Chelangat – UGX 10,000,000
Silver: Emily Chebet – UGX 7,500,000
Bronze: Peruth Chemusto – UGX 5,000,000
21 KM
Men:
Gold: Abel Chebet – UGX 5,000,000
Silver: Mark Kiptoo – UGX 3,000,000
Bronze: Peter Akwech – UGX 2,000,000
Women:
Gold: Rachael Chebet Zena – UGX 5,000,000
Silver: Esther Chekwemoi – UGX 3,000,000
Bronze: Saibi Chebet – UGX 2,000,000
10 KM
Men:
Gold: Silas Rotich – UGX 2,000,000
Silver: Jabeth Arapsatya – UGX 1,500,000
Bronze: Abra Cherotich – UGX 1,000,000
Women:
Gold: Kerine Cherop – UGX 2,000,000
Silver: Ariziki Chelangat – UGX 1,500,000
Bronze: Edinah Nemigisha – UGX 1,000,000
The event marked a significant milestone in merging coffee industry promotion with community engagement, athletic excellence, and cultural celebration.
