A mammoth crowd braved the Sunday downpour to participate in the Kabaka Birthday Run—flagged off by the Kabaka himself amid jubilation and warm chants .
Authorities put the figures at more than 100,000 according to ticket sales of the 12th Edition of the highly anticipated Airtel-Kabaka Birthday Run.
This year’s event, held at Lubiri under the theme “Men Against HIV/AIDS to Save the Girl Child,” reaffirmed the commitment to ending HIV/AIDS by 2030 and celebrated His Majesty Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s 70th birthday
Since its inception, the Kabaka Birthday Run has grown into one of Uganda’s most significant health awareness initiatives, championing causes such as sickle cell awareness, fistula prevention, and now the fight against HIV/AIDS.
The Katikkiro of Buganda, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga highlighted the importance of this year’s run. “This year, we continue to amplify our message, Men Against HIV/AIDS to Save the Girl Child. The Kabaka Birthday Run is not just a celebration of His Majesty’s life but a rallying call to improve public health in our nation. We appreciate our premium partner, Airtel Uganda, whose continued support has been instrumental in making a real difference in the fight against HIV/AIDS.”
Through continued advocacy, such as the Kabaka Birthday Run, progress can continue to be made in reducing disease burdens with the ultimate goal of achieving an AIDS-free Uganda.
Airtel Uganda’s Managing Director, Soumendra Sahu, commended Ugandans for their continued support towards the fight to end HIV/AIDS in Uganda.
“It is inspiring to see thousands of Ugandans once again unite for a cause that directly impacts their communities. Every one of us here is here for a brother, a sister, a friend, a stranger, and family at large, he said, adding:
“Our longstanding partnership with the Buganda Kingdom is a testament to our commitment to sustainable development, particularly in the field of health. Together, we are taking significant steps towards eliminating HIV/AIDS by 2030.
