Mbale, Uganda – February 22, 2025
The annual Wanale Climbing Challenge, organized by the Rotary Club of Mbale (RC Mbale), once again brought together hundreds of participants for a cause that blends adventure with philanthropy. Held on the last Saturday of February, the event marks Rotary’s anniversary and serves as a fundraiser for education and maternal health in the region.
This year’s edition was jointly sponsored by RC Kira and RC Kasangati and saw an overwhelming turnout of over 250 participants, including 16 Rotary Clubs and 10 Rotaract Clubs. The event was officiated by Don Wanyama, CEO of Vision Group, and supported by key partners Vision Group, Stanbic Bank, Elgon Water, and Balloon Ventures. The challenge covered a 5KM hike, beginning at Rotary Park near Mt. Elgon Hotel in Mbale City, through the stunning landscapes of Wanale Ridge.
Climbing for a Cause
The primary objective of the Wanale Climbing Challenge is to raise funds to support education, particularly for underprivileged learners, and to improve maternal health services. Proceeds from the event contribute to Bubentsye Primary School in Wanale Sub County and provide scholarships to deserving students in the Elgon region. In 2025, the initiative expanded its scope to include maternal health services, with 200 mama kits distributed to expectant mothers at Wanale Health Centre.
Thematic Objectives: Walk for Fun, Walk for Health, Walk for Service
- Walk for Fun – The challenge promotes local tourism, offering participants a scenic journey through Wanale’s breathtaking cliffs and valleys. The hike fosters bonding, networking, and community engagement, contributing to peacebuilding and community development.
- Walk for Health – In alignment with Rotary’s focus on disease prevention and treatment, the event encourages physical activity and healthy living. The trek up Wanale’s slopes tests endurance and fosters a deeper connection with nature.
- Walk for Service – The funds raised from registration fees and sponsorships directly support education initiatives in the region. These include scholarships, infrastructure development, and provision of learning materials to underserved schools.
Impact of the 2025 Wanale Climbing Challenge
Funds raised from the event will be used to:
- Support scholarships for underprivileged students (currently seven learners in Senior 6).
- Provide learning materials and remedial classes for Bubentsye Primary School.
- Improve school infrastructure, including the construction of teacher accommodations and classroom renovations.
- Distribute 200 mama kits to expectant mothers at Wanale Health Centre.
Bubentsye Primary School: A School in Need
Established in 1920, Bubentsye Primary School serves 1,098 students (522 boys, 576 girls) with only 12 classrooms, leading to an overcrowding ratio of 156 learners per class. A recent needs assessment highlighted the following challenges:
- Shortfall of 12 classrooms
- Need for fencing and security improvements
- Limited access to textbooks and learning materials
- Inadequate teacher accommodations
- School feeding program support
- Water facilities and sanitation improvements
- Additional teaching staff to improve the teacher-pupil ratio
- Tree planting for environmental conservation
Classroom blocks
Join the Cause
As the Wanale Climbing Challenge continues to grow, RC Mbale is committed to expanding its impact across all seven Rotary focus areas. The club extends gratitude to all sponsors and partners, including RC Kasangati, RC Kira, Vision Group, Balloon Ventures, Stanbic Bank, and Elgon Water.
For those who wish to support this noble cause, direct donations can be made to the Education Fund of RC Mbale.
For more information, contact Magical President – Rtn Deborah Siango at +256 782861480 or email siangodebbie@gmail.com.
Together, let’s climb for education and maternal health. Every step makes a difference!
Event Highlights
