By Prisca Oroma

A 42 year old woman Harriet Kwach on Saturday won the women’s race in the Alur Kingdom
bicycle race.
The race which started at Agwok primary school with women racing 25 km while men 30 km
was with excitement as thousands gathered to witness the grand finale of the 4th edition of
the MTN-Alur Kingdom Bicycle Races. The competitors cam from the three counties of
Jonam, Padyere, and Okoro.
Kwach of Padyere crossed the finish line first to claim the UGX 1.5 million top prize.
Jonam’s Lillian Aciu and Padyere’s Consolate Akumu finished second and third, earning UGX
700,000 and UGX 300,000 respectively.
Kwach said it was her first time to participate and she is happy that she won
“ I bought my bicycle for business and I use it carry cassava to Madi okollo and other goods to
come and sell here” She said.
Kwach noted that she will use part of the money to add on her business and some for school
feed since she is a single mother with no support.
“I thank MTN Uganda and Alur kingdom fro this great opportunity” she added
In the men’s 30km race, Jonam County’s Anthony Kumakech a two time winner was excited
and lamented that next year he will come again to participate
Kumakech took home UGX 1.5 million, while Padyere’s Robert Rwothongeyo finished second
with UGX 700,000, and his county-mate Colbert Kaguta came third, earning UGX 300,000.
The races have evolved beyond athletic competition, becoming a platform for cultural
celebration and social change. Through initiatives like these, the Alur Kingdom continues to
promote positive parenting and fight against early marriages and teenage pregnancies.
Alur Kingdom Deputy Prime Minister Vincent Orach Ochaya, who presided over the awards,
praised MTN Uganda for sustaining the partnership and supporting local talent.

“The bicycle races have become an annual event attracting talent and promoting economic
growth. They provide a platform for cyclists to showcase their skills right from the chiefdom
level,” he said.

Nebbi District LC5 Chairperson Emmanuel Urombi pledged to renovate Agwok Primary
School, the venue for next year’s coronation anniversary celebrations.
MTN Uganda reaffirmed its commitment to the kingdom’s growth. Regional Commercial
Officer Phillips Odoi said the company’s support goes beyond sports.
“We’re committed not only to supporting sports but also to improving health centers and
schools. We want winners to change economically and eradicate poverty, because when
people are healthy and thriving, so is the community,” Odoi said.
MTN Territorial Sales Manager Taban Godwin added that this year’s cash prizes were
increased and hinted at even bigger rewards in 2026.
The event is part of the activities leading up to the 15th coronation anniversary of His Royal
Majesty Phillip Olarker Rauni III.
The Alur Kingdom Bicycle Race is an annual community event in Uganda, sponsored by MTN
Uganda, that aims to promote unity and raise awareness about social issues, particularly ending
child pregnancy and early marriage within the Ker Alur Kingdom.
The event serves as a platform for cultural engagement, sports, and the promotion of
health and educational initiatives, uniting different communities within the kingdom and
fostering positive community development. 
End