Thousands gather to celebrate rural women and Uganda’s coffee heritage with music, marathons, and empowerment.
The serene hills of Rwashamaire transformed into a vibrant epicenter of culture and empowerment this weekend as the inaugural Coffee Marathon and Concert unfolded at the newly unveiled Africa Coffee Park. The event, themed “Uplifting the Rural Coffee Woman out of Poverty,” seamlessly blended athleticism, music, and a powerful social message, drawing thousands from across East Africa.
The Coffee Marathon Concert, held at the newly unveiled Africa Coffee Park in Rwashamire turned into a red carpet affair–complete with choppers, convoys, flashing lights and music that echoed across the hills. From Diamond Platnumz’s sky-high arrival to Bebe Cool’s signature bold entrance.
A Marathon with a Mission
Organized by Inspire Africa Group, the Coffee Marathon aimed to raise UGX 2 billion to support rural women integral to Uganda’s coffee industry. Despite contributing significantly to the nation’s $1.6 billion coffee export revenue in 2024, many of these women remain in poverty.
Dr. Nelson Tugume, CEO of Inspire Africa, emphasized the event’s purpose:
“This marathon is more than just a run; it is a movement for economic transformation. We are running to change lives, especially those of rural women growing our coffee.”
Participants competed in races spanning 5km to the full 42km marathon, traversing scenic routes through coffee fields and along Lake Nyabihoko. The Sebei region’s athletes dominated the 42km elite category, with Isaac Masai and Merceline Chelangat clinching gold in the men’s and women’s races, respectively.
Star-Studded Concert Celebrates Culture and Unity
As dusk settled, the Africa Coffee Park pulsated with energy as music legends Bebe Cool, Diamond Platnumz, and The Ben took the stage. Diamond Platnumz’s dramatic arrival via helicopter set the tone for an unforgettable night.
Bebe Cool, reflecting on the event’s significance, stated: “This is what Uganda needs—events that bring together purpose, people, and passion.” The Insider
The concert also featured performances by Eddy Kenzo, Ray G, Sister Charity, and Truth256, creating a diverse musical tapestry that resonated with the audience.
Symbolic Gestures and Future Aspirations
In a poignant moment, Diamond Platnumz and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa planted a coffee tree at the park, symbolizing growth and partnership.
Bebe Cool extended a call to Ugandan baristas abroad: “I want every talented barista out there to come back home, join this movement, and raise the value of our coffee. Let’s take Uganda’s coffee to the world.”
A Blueprint for Empowerment
The Coffee Marathon and Concert transcended entertainment, serving as a catalyst for social change and economic empowerment. By spotlighting the pivotal role of rural women in the coffee sector, the event laid the groundwork for increased investment and global recognition of Uganda’s coffee heritage.