Kampala: Airtel Money, Uganda’s most affordable and secure financial service, has today announced its partnership with the Virunga Gorilla Marathon as the official and exclusive payment partner, embedding Airtel Money Merchant Pay into the marathon experience. The partnership is aimed at advancing the drive toward a cashless economy through increased adoption of digital payments among Ugandans.
The Virunga Gorilla Marathon is a prestigious annual event held in the breathtaking Virunga Mountains, one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the world. The marathon is more than a race; it is a platform that promotes ecological conservation, social sustainability, and community development while showcasing the unparalleled beauty of this iconic destination. It reflects the power of sport to inspire change and create lasting impact for both the environment and local communities.
As part of the partnership, all marathon kit purchases will be made exclusively through Airtel Money Merchant Pay, ensuring convenience, security, and transparency for runners, merchants, and surrounding communities.
Participants can simply dial *185*9# and follow the prompts, or use the MyAirtel App to purchase their running kits seamlessly.
Speaking at the partnership launch, the Managing Director of Airtel Money, Japhet Aritho, said, “Today, we take another step in advancing our vision of a cashless economy, one that simplifies transactions and makes them more accessible through digital solutions. At Airtel Money, we believe the future of financial transactions is digital, driven by simplicity, accessibility, and convenience. This partnership brings that vision to life on a trusted and impactful platform,”he added, “This marathon is something to be proud of. It is more than a race; it is a platform that brings people together, promotes tourism, and uplifts communities. At Airtel, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that not only celebrate Uganda’s heritage but also contribute to the well-being of communities and their people.”
The Virunga Gorilla Marathon will take place on 30th May 2026 and will feature two race categories: the 112km Ultra Marathon and the 42km Full Marathon. Registration fees are UGX 70,000 for Ugandan runners and USD 30 for international participants.Commenting on the partnership, Kenneth Kamukama Rashid team lead for the Virunga Marathon commended Airtel Money for its continued support toward initiatives that drive social impact and community development.
“We thank Airtel Money for always being innovative and for creating solutions that enhance flexibility and convenience. We believe this partnership will significantly boost kit sales due to its ease of use. It also enables us to improve access to running kits and better track transactions,” he said.
Kamukama further added, “Our runners will experience an unforgettable challenge as they pass through rainforests, rolling hills, and ancient lava fields, while also engaging with the warmth and hospitality of local communities.”
“As Airtel Money, we will continue to enable seamless payments, expand access, and drive financial inclusion across Uganda. Together, we are not just powering payments, we are powering progress, inclusion, and a more connected Uganda,” Aritho concluded.
