KCCA SUPPORTS KABAKA BIRTHDAY RUN IN FIGHT AGAINST HIV/AIDS

In a show of solidarity and commitment to combating HIV/AIDS, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) supported the Kabaka Birthday Run by procuring kits worth UGX12 million.

The contribution was formally presented to the Buganda Kingdom by a KCCA delegation led by the Deputy Executive Director, David Luyimbazi, at a ceremony held at Bulange Mengo on Friday.

The event was graced by the Katikkiro of Buganda Charles Peter Mayiga, various ministers of the Kingdom, and key partners.

Among the attendees were also members of the KCCA Council, such as Mayor of Lubaga Division Zacchy Mberaze and John Mary Ssebufu, the Executive Secretary for finance.

The 11th edition of the Kabaka Birthday Run, scheduled for Sunday, April 7 2024, carries the theme "Men are stars in the fight against HIV/AIDS to save the Girl Child."

David Luyimbazi, speaking on behalf of KCCA, emphasized the critical role of the Buganda Kingdom in driving positive social impact initiatives like the Kabaka Birthday Run.

He stated, "HIV is a disease that we have to fight all of us. We are here to support this cause," highlighting the collaborative effort needed to combat such widespread challenges.

Luyimbazi announced that KCCA staff would actively participate in the run, underscoring the Authority's commitment to both the cause and the community it serves.

Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro, commended KCCA for its unwavering support of the Kabaka Run and the broader mission of ending HIV/AIDS.

He urged the public, saying, "Come and support us in the fight against HIV/AIDS," rallying individuals and organizations to join hands in this critical endeavor.

The proceeds from the Kabaka Birthday Run will directly contribute to the fight against HIV/AIDS, aligning with the overarching theme of "Ending HIV/AIDS by 2030."

This theme symbolizes a collective vision of a world free from HIV/AIDS and serves as a powerful platform to raise awareness, mobilize resources, and drive tangible action towards achieving this vital goal.

There are an estimated 1.5million people living with HIV in Uganda and with an estimated 1000 new infections every week according to Uganda AIDS Commission.

This annual run, held in celebration of the Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II's birthday, champions noble causes that resonate deeply with the community.

The run, set to commence and conclude at the Kabaka Palace in Lubiri – Mengo, Kampala, promises to be not only a commemorative event but also a meaningful step forward in the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS.​

Story By Geoffrey Mutegeki Araali

Communication and Media Relations Officer