Stanbic Bank has handed over Shs250 million to MTN Uganda as its contribution towards the 2019 MTN Kampala Marathon.
The Bank has been a key long-term partner and supporter of the Marathon since its inception 16 years ago.
This year, the event will take place on November 24, 2019 and proceeds will go towards improving maternal health in the country.
While handing over the cheque, Patrick Mweheire, Stanbic Bank’s Chief Executive said, “We are pleased one again to be an annual partner in the MTN Marathon, a remarkable event that reaches out to thousands of Ugandans through initiatives that aim to transform lives in our communities.”
According to the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), Uganda’s Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) has consistently been one of the highest in the world with 440 deaths per 100,000 live births. This means one woman out of every 49 will die of a maternal complication related to pregnancy or delivery. “We believe corporate partnerships like this will go a long way in providing lasting solutions for such tragedies and loss of human life.”
He added: “Our objective as a bank is to build on the 16 years of success not only through our financial support but through the participation of our staff. Notably, we contribute the largest number of runners from a single company with over 200 staff members participating annually.”
MTN CEO Wim Vanhelleputte thanked Stanbic Bank for the continued support over the years. He said, “The success of the MTN Kampala Marathon wouldn’t be where it is today without the support of key partners like Stanbic. Together, we have continued to encourage thousands of Ugandans to contribute towards needy communities every year. Maternal health is an area that requires improvement especially in terms of seeking, reaching and receiving adequate and appropriate care. Through s\uch partnerships, we will be able to improve these conditions to ensure safe childbirth for women.”
In 2018, Shs 633 million raised from the MTN Kampala Marathon and Regional Runs with another top up of Shs 400 million from the MTN Foundation, all together totaling Shs1.33 billion has been invested towards improving maternal health in Bulambuli, Pakwach, Ntoroko, Kalangala and Kawempe Health Centre IV facilities.
The MTN Foundation is working with the Ministry of Health and UNFPA as the implementing partner on the completion of these projects which will be commissioned by the end of 2019.
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