KCCA JOINS KABAKA BIRTHDAY RUN TO BOOST HIV FIGHT

A sea of red swept through Lubiri on Sunday as tens of thousands gathered for the annual Kabaka Birthday Run, with Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) joining the campaign to raise awareness in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Kabaka Ronald Mwenda Mutebi II arrived at the palace grounds at about 7:40 a.m. alongside the Nabaggereka Sylvia Nagginda, greeting crowds of runners before flagging off the 21-kilometer race at exactly 8:00 a.m.

KCCA, led by Deputy Executive Director Benon Kigenyi, was among the key institutional participants in this year’s event, signaling continued public sector support for HIV/AIDS prevention efforts.

“This run speaks directly to the kind of city we are building, one that prioritizes health, awareness and collective responsibility,” Kigenyi said. “As KCCA, we are committed to supporting initiatives that improve the wellbeing of our people.”

The run, held annually ahead of the Kabaka’s birthday, has grown into one of Uganda’s largest health awareness campaigns, attracting more than 130,000 participants. Now in its 13th year, it brings together government agencies, corporate companies and members of the public.

This year’s theme, “Men for Good Health to Save the Girl Child and the Fight to End HIV/AIDS by 2030,” emphasizes the role of men in reducing new infections, particularly among women and young girls.

Charles Peter Mayiga, the prime minister of Buganda Kingdom, commended KCCA for its continued collaboration with the kingdom on social and development initiatives.

“We appreciate the consistent support from KCCA,” Mayiga said. “Partnerships like this are essential in advancing both public health and the broader development of our communities.”

Uganda has an estimated 1.5 million people living with HIV, according to health authorities, underscoring the importance of sustained public engagement.

Over the years, the run has evolved from a ceremonial celebration into a major platform for public health advocacy, using mass participation to amplify messages on prevention and community responsibility.

By Geofrey Mutegeki Araali

Communication and Media Relations Officer