KCCA RUNS FOR HOPE IN ROTARY CANCER FIGHT

Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, came alive Sunday morning as children, men and women streamed in, their bright T-shirts and restless footsteps signalling the start of a run that meant more than a race.

Some came with colleagues. Others arrived with friends and family. Many carried a more personal reason for being there: a loved one lost to cancer, a relative still undergoing treatment or a simple desire to help improve access to care.

For a few hours, Kampala's usual bustle roads gave way to a common purpose as thousands took part in the 15th edition of the Rotary Cancer Run.

Held under the theme “Gwanga Mujje,” the event brought together government leaders, health workers, businesses, families and residents to raise awareness and money for cancer treatment while encouraging early detection.

Among those taking part were Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) staff led by the Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki and her deputy, Benon Kigenyi.

Buzeki praised Rotary for keeping the annual campaign going and thanked Kampala residents for turning out to support the cause.

“I commend Rotary for continuing to mobilise Ugandans around a cause that affects so many families. I thank the people of Kampala for coming out and showing that when we unite, we can make a difference,” Buzeki said.

She urged Ugandans to seek medical checkups early rather than waiting until they become seriously ill.

That message was central to the event, which included free cancer screening, medical camps and public education alongside the run.

Organizers are seeking to raise UGX5 billion to help purchase a Linear Accelerator, or LINAC, machine for Nsambya Hospital.

The equipment would strengthen radiotherapy services and expand access to specialized cancer treatment.

Health Minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi thanked participants for responding to the campaign and urged Ugandans to remain vigilant about their health.

Regular screening, healthier choices and early treatment can help reduce the impact of cancer, he said.

Dr. Francis Tusubira, a former district governor for Rotary District 9200 and the event's chief runner, said the campaign was increasingly moving beyond fundraising.

The emphasis is also shifting toward prevention, early detection, treatment and support for people living with cancer, he said.

The Rotary Cancer Run has become one of the country's largest annual cancer awareness campaigns, drawing thousands of participants in different parts of Uganda.

In Kampala, the runners eventually made their way back to Kololo, tired but smiling. The race was over but the cause was not.

By Geofrey Mutegeki Araali

Communication and Media Relations Officer