Thousands of Ugandans defied a morning downpour to participate in the annual Kabaka Birthday Run, a flagship event promoting health, unity, and awareness in Uganda.
Held in honor of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s 70th birthday, the run drew participants from all walks of life, transforming the rain-slicked streets of Kampala into rivers of red as runners sported the signature Airtel-branded t-shirts.
Themed around the fight against HIV/AIDS, this year’s edition placed a special focus on encouraging HIV testing, early diagnosis, and increasing male involvement in prevention efforts.
The event featured 5km, 10km, and 21km race categories, allowing both casual and seasoned runners to take part.
Corporate Commitment to Health
Among the notable participants was Hima Cement, which fielded a strong team to reaffirm its support for public health initiatives. Philemon Mubiru, the company’s Head of Innovation and Marketing, highlighted the importance of corporate participation:
“Hima Cement’s involvement in the Kabaka Birthday Run is not just corporate responsibility—it’s about investing in community well-being and contributing to Uganda’s goal of ending AIDS by 2030.”
Mubiru also noted the event’s dual impact: promoting physical wellness while urging men to take a proactive role in HIV prevention, a crucial step toward reducing infection rates among adolescent girls and young women.
A Personal and Public Cause
For many, the run is deeply personal. Mathias Mutebi, a local trader, shared his motivation:
“I never miss the Kabaka Birthday runs because they aim for good causes. I also enjoy the run for fitness purposes.”
Participants described the run as more than just a race—it was a powerful symbol of resilience, health advocacy, and unity, despite the pouring rain.
“It wasn’t just a run—it was a statement. Rain or shine, we’re in this together,” said Claire Atugonza, one of the participants.
National Fight Against HIV
Uganda still faces considerable challenges in the fight against HIV, with 1.4 million people living with the virus and a national prevalence rate of 5.1%.
The run comes as part of broader national efforts to eliminate HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, with strong support from organizations like Airtel Uganda, Bank of Uganda, and others.
A Call to Action from Buganda Leadership
Buganda Kingdom Prime Minister Charles Peter Mayiga used the event to address deeper societal issues fueling the epidemic. He challenged men to take accountability:
“Prostitution, a long-standing reality, has fueled the spread of HIV. Many women hesitate to test due to financial dependency on men. When men use money or gifts to lure young women into risky relationships, it puts entire communities at risk.”
He continued with a powerful call to action:
“Men, it is time to step up. Take control, save lives, and protect the future. Older men, safeguard young girls—when you protect them, you protect your own daughters. Ending HIV/AIDS starts with us.”
