KCCA BACKS KABAKA RUN IN RENEWED PUSH AGAINST HIV/AIDS

Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has stepped up its support for this year’s Kabaka Birthday Run, strengthening a long-standing partnership with Buganda Kingdom in a renewed push to combat HIV/AIDS and improve public health across the city.

On Friday, KCCA officials led by Deputy Executive Director Benon Kigenyi visited Bulange in Mengo, where they handed over UGX5 million to support the annual run.

The authority also purchased running kits for its staff, who will take part in the event, signaling both institutional backing and personal commitment to the cause.

The Kabaka Birthday Run, organised in honour of Kabaka Ronald Mwenda Mutebi II, is scheduled for April 12 at Lubiri, Mengo, a day before the monarch’s 71st birthday.

Now in its 13th year, the run has evolved into one of Uganda’s largest health awareness campaigns, drawing more than 130,000 participants annually.

This year’s theme, “Men for Good Health to Save the Girl Child and the Fight to End HIV/AIDS by 2030”, places a spotlight on male responsibility in reversing the HIV burden, particularly among women and young girls.

Kigenyi praised the Kingdom’s consistency in using cultural influence to drive public health messaging, noting that the initiative aligns closely with KCCA’s vision of building a healthy, productive and inclusive urban population.

“Our collaboration with Buganda Kingdom reflects a shared commitment to improving public health outcomes,” Kigenyi said. “Beyond HIV/AIDS, this partnership addresses broader urban health challenges from sanitation to community awareness and contributes to a safer Kampala.”

At the same event, the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, delivered a candid message on personal responsibility and societal roles in fighting HIV/AIDS.

With an estimated 1.5 million Ugandans living with HIV, Mayiga stressed that prevention remains critical, particularly in addressing behaviours that drive transmission.

He challenged men to take the lead in protecting women, pointing out that economic power often places them in a position to influence decisions around health.

“It should be the men to save the women,” he said, urging men to embrace testing and responsible conduct.

In a direct appeal to women and young girls, the Katikkiro encouraged them to prioritise their health and demand accountability from their partners, including HIV testing, regardless of financial dependence.

“Even if he pays your rent, ask him to test,” he said. “If he refuses, make a decision that protects your life.”

He also reiterated key prevention measures, including regular testing, adherence to treatment, abstinence and faithfulness.

Mayiga, encouraged Ugandans to purchase running kits and turn up in big numbers for the run on Sunday.

Over the years, the Kabaka Birthday Run has grown beyond a ceremonial event into a powerful platform for public health advocacy, bringing together government agencies, cultural institutions and ordinary citizens in a shared mission.

Communication and Media Relations

By Geofrey Mutegeki Araali