Buganda Kingdom has announced that it raised Shs2.4 billion from the 11th annual Kabaka's Birthday Run held in 2024. The run, aimed at raising awareness against HIV/Aids, attracted 120,000 participants who purchased kits totaling Shs2.4 billion. This number represents an increase from the previous year's initiative, where 100,000 kits were sold, each priced at Shs20,000. Additionally, government officials and agencies made cash contributions towards the cause.
Buganda Minister of Information and Spokesperson Israel Kazibwe Kitooke explained that the run targets the HIV fight and empowering the girl child. He expressed gratitude to partners such as Airtel Uganda, UNAIDS, and I&M Bank Uganda, as well as individual donors, for their contributions.
Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II was unable to attend the run for the first time. Buganda Kingdom Katikkiro (Prime Minister) Charles Peter Mayiga stated that the Kabaka traveled to Europe on March 21 for doctors' appointments and further tests related to his ongoing treatment. Mayiga assured that the Kabaka would return once his doctors completed their work.
Kabaka's sister, Nnaalinya Lubuga Agnes Nabaloga, represented him at the event. In a message delivered at the Buganda Kingdom headquarters in Mengo, Kabaka urged men to get tested and seek treatment if necessary, emphasizing their role in the fight against HIV/Aids.
The run, held under the theme "Men against HIV/Aids to save the girl child," aligns with UNAIDS' goal of ending HIV/Aids by 2030. This theme resonates with Kabaka's role as a UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador for East and Southern Africa since 2012.
The run featured a 21-kilometer race, starting at 7:21 am, followed by 10km and 5km races. Satellite runs were also held in various sub-county headquarters and abroad.
While the run focused on physical well-being, it also emphasized sexual and reproductive health. Free HIV testing at the venue highlighted the importance of prevention and early diagnosis.
Several organizations supported the run, including the Nation Media Group – Uganda (NMG-U), which actively promoted the event. The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Mr. Joel Ssenyonyi, emphasized the importance of leadership by example and the availability of medication for those living with HIV.
Partnerships with organizations such as Airtel Uganda and I&M Bank Uganda underscored the event's broader purpose of promoting well-being and encouraging responsible decisions. Free HIV testing at the venue was co-organized by the Uganda AIDS Commission, Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, and Rubaga Hospital.
The run's success reflects a strong community commitment to fighting HIV/Aids in Uganda, with a clear call to action to prioritize health and continue the fight against the disease.
