ResearchFinds News (RFN): Briefly tell us about yourself. Who you are and what you do
Ivan Kahangire (IK): My name is Ivan Niragire Kahangire, born into the family of Patrick Osbert Kahangire the grandson of the late Mzee Malachi Mateka. Originally hailing from Buhweju then Kashari, I ended up in Bugehe village, Chahi Sub County, Bufumbira South Kisoro, at the age of two, due to circumstances beyond my control.
RFN: What do you do?
IK: I am a Technopreneur and Enterprise Cyber Security evangelist, currently serving as the Country Manager of Uganda for an Israeli Cyber Security Vendor Solutions Distributor. My passion lies in adventure sports tourism, and I’m organizing the Virunga Mountains Marathon 2024 with a cause to support the ICU at Kisoro Hospital. Apart from my role in the cybersecurity sector, I am deeply involved in adventure sports tourism with a cause. I desire to share the unique experiences of Kisoro with the world, and the marathon serves as a platform to achieve that. Additionally, I have a strong affinity for cricket, golf, and soccer.
RFN: What is it about this marathon, and how is it unique from the ones we’ve seen over the years?
IK: The uniqueness of the Virunga Mountains Marathon lies in several aspects. It takes place in the stunning Virunga Mountains, surrounded by hills, calderas, and crater lakes, offering an unparalleled experience. The route encompasses the three Mountains of Muhavura, Mgahinga, and Sabyinyo, making it a marathon distance of 42km. Importantly, the event contributes to equipping and enhancing the capacity of the recently established ICU at Kisoro Hospital.
RFN: You are a reclusive guy but all of a sudden, we see you in the limelight. What is driving you into this?
IK: Having spent my early formative years in Kisoro, I’ve witnessed economic growth and social transformation. I want to give back to my childhood home and country by rallying support for better healthcare. The marathon allows me to combine my passion for sports tourism with a cause, contributing to the establishment of the ICU at Kisoro Hospital.
RFN: Do you have clearance from the Ministry of Health? What does it say?
IK: Clearance from the Ministry of Health is not necessary. We have established a partnership with the hospital, focusing on the cause rather than bureaucratic clearances.
RFN: How much does the ICU need, and how much do you hope to raise from the Marathon?
IK: The ICU at Kisoro Hospital requires UGX 200M, and our goal is to raise UGX 100M through the marathon.
RFN: Take us through how the marathon is going to be executed from start to finish
IK: It is a detailed planning, including route mapping, meetings with local leadership, and engagement with businesses in Kisoro, which will be conducted by the organizing committee. We’ll be on the ground in the coming weeks to finalize these arrangements.
RFN: Which stakeholders and other sponsors have embraced this?
IK: NBS TV, Legacy, EXP, and 32 other entities are excited to come on board. We’re in the early stages of engagement with additional sponsors as they plan their budget for the new financial year.
RFN: How do members of the public get to participate? How about foreigners? Take us through this process.
IK: To participate, visit the event page to register and purchase tickets for the Virunga Mountains Marathon. This includes options for transport and accommodation. This link will help more: https://www.ticketsasa.com/events/eventdetail/view/3977/the_virunga_mountains_marathon
RFN: What are your participating shots?
IK: The Virunga Mountains Marathon is not just about physical exercise; it’s about promoting a healthy Uganda through improved medical services, tourism adventure, and entertainment. The event aims to contribute to the mental wellness of participants and boost the local business community by showcasing and selling their products.
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