Rotary intensifies nationwide fundraising campaign to combat cancer

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In response to the persistent challenge posed by cancer in Uganda, Rotary has stepped up its efforts to combat the disease through fundraising initiatives aimed at supporting the construction of the country's first specialised cancer hospital in Nsambya, Kampala.

Data from the National Institute of Health indicates that between 23,000 and 25,000 people in Uganda die from cancer each year, representing an average of about 67 deaths daily.

The initiative, spearheaded by Rotary through its annual Cancer Run campaign, seeks to restore hope for Ugandans battling cancer by improving access to specialised diagnostic and treatment services. The hospital is projected to be completed by 2027.

Currently, sh11 billion is available for the ongoing construction of the facility, which will be equipped with two linear accelerators. However, a funding gap of sh5 billion remains before construction can be completed.

As preparations gather pace for the 15th National Cancer Run, scheduled for August 30, 2026, at Kololo Independence Grounds and other locations across the country, Rotary clubs are intensifying community mobilisation efforts and encouraging citizens to join the fight against cancer.

On April 30, a launch event was held in Ngora town council, bringing together Rotarians from six clubs in the Teso sub-region who participated in awareness campaigns and mobilisation activities.

Rotarian Eng. Accram Nsubuga Nyanje, chairperson of the Cancer Run 2026 organising committee, said Rotary aims to raise Shs5 billion during this year's run, noting that each kit costs sh30,000.

He added that once construction is complete, an additional sh50 billion will be required to equip the hospital.

The project is intended to strengthen Uganda's capacity to manage cancer cases and reduce the challenges faced by patients seeking timely specialised treatment.

“Let us all come together so that we can advocate for this cause,” Nsubuga urged.

He also acknowledged the continued support from Members of Parliament, non-governmental organisations, development partners and private sector players.

“We are grateful for the backing we continually receive from leaders and institutions standing with Rotary in this noble endeavour. Addressing cancer is a collective effort that requires unity across all sectors of society,” he added.

New leadership installed

During the mobilisation event in Ngora, Rotary officially installed six presidents-elect from clubs in Teso who will lead activities related to cancer campaigns, medical camps and health awareness programmes, among other initiatives.

Those installed include Dr Joseph Opul for Soroti Central, Jane Aik for Ngora, Peter Jonathan Ongodia for Serere, Stephen Ojakol for Katakwi, Ann Grace Aguti for Kumi and Joseph Stephen Omutoj for Bukedea.

During the installation ceremony, the leaders were handed the instruments of office.

Dr Opul succeeds Martin Moris Okolo, Aik replaces Godfrey Apusan, Ongodia takes over from Peter Omedo, while Ojakol succeeds Dr David Okiror.

The new leaders are expected to inject fresh energy into Rotary's mission, particularly in health programmes, community empowerment and resource mobilisation across the sub-region.

In his inaugural address, Dr Opul encouraged active participation in the upcoming Cancer Run and pledged to continue efforts to combat cancer, poverty and hunger in line with Sustainable Development Goal 1 and the NRM Manifesto for 2026-2031.

“I aim to equip our community with skills in entrepreneurship, mindset transformation, and business development to enhance household income. When people are economically empowered, they can afford education and contribute to tax revenue, supporting President Museveni’s goal of boosting Uganda's GDP from $50 million to approximately $500 million and significantly increasing the number of citizens contributing to our economic growth,” he stated.

Awareness remains key

Okolo, who lost two family members to cancer, said raising awareness and encouraging active community participation remain critical in tackling the cancer burden.

He also announced plans to drill 25 boreholes across Teso this year at a cost exceeding sh625 million.

Rotarian James Robert Otim, the LC5 chairperson of Ngora district, urged the incoming leadership to continue advancing Rotary's programmes, emphasising the collective responsibility of fighting cancer.

The event also featured a banner exchange and a final toast among other activities.