72 stunning photos from Kabaka’s Birthday Run

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The Kabaka Birthday Run is one of the most anticipated events every year in Kampala City. This year's event, marking its 12th edition, attracted thousands on Sunday.

As is tradition each year, participants gathered at the Lubiri (the Kabaka's Palace) in Mengo as early as 6:00 am. Once there, they engaged in a warm-up routine before being officially flagged off by Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, who is turning 70 years old this month.

The Kabaka Run is a dual celebration; it honours His Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda and highlights Uganda's fight against HIV/AIDS.

This year's theme was "Men for Good Health to Save the Girl Child". This highlights the critical role men play in curbing HIV transmission.

The event featured 5km, 10km, and 21km race categories to cater to all fitness levels. Participants wore their kits, each purchased for sh20,000. The kit included a red vest with white lettering and sleeves, a water bottle, and a small bag.

Kampala painted red!

Despite the rain that began at about 7:00 am, thousands of participants showed remarkable determination and braved the weather. Some carried umbrellas, while others found the raindrops invigorating.

The attendees not only ran in the rain but also engaged in playful activities. Many took advantage of the wet grounds to play football, and a few who had enjoyed some drinks treated the muddy water like their personal bathtub.

The event attracted leaders from various levels, including representatives from the kingdom, local government, and the central government.

Every moment was captured on camera, thanks to our dedicated photojournalists who also ventured out in the rain to document these experiences. Now, let’s take you through some highlights.

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In high definition, I present to you Moses Nsubuga's lenses. Every moment, as it unfolded, captured with a light drizzle. Prepare to be even more amazed.

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Cheers to the camera!

Some experiences are truly camera-worthy. Getting caught in the rain can be unforgettable, especially when you pose with a big smile, making the moment even more memorable. Definitely worth it!"

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Drinks, Food, and Fun!

After the exhausting run, it was time to quench their thirst. Everyone had different preferences: some chose a cold beer, others went for a local brew, and a few opted for a hot beverage. A snack also came in handy.

This marked the beginning of the post-run celebrations. One by one, the dance floor filled up, and the energy only got better. Hahaha!

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Rain and mud – let’s dance!

When it started raining and you were snug in your bed, it was easy to think that the day was over; your plans to participate in the Kabaka Run were dashed. But wait, that’s just one way to think.

Who said rain could stop these participants? This event happens only once a year, and they embraced every moment of it. The muddy waters became their new playground. After a few sips of beer, the games began.

With every raindrop, the adrenaline surged even higher. Have you ever seen adults this excited? It’s hard to believe, but witnessing this was truly a sight to behold. They played like children and definitely enjoyed themselves.

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How was that? You certainly enjoyed it; more is yet to come. Guess who is our next photojournalist? The legendary Mpalanyi Ssentongo was present too for the Kabaka Run. Through his lenses, let's take a deep dive and see what he got.

Welcoming Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II

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Oh, hail the King!

The sight of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II was truly remarkable. His subjects erupted in cheers, expressing their joy at seeing their king. Majestically, he ascended the stage and waved at them, greeted by enthusiastic cheers and ululations.

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The attendees not only ran in the rain but also engaged in playful activities. Many took advantage of the wet grounds to play football, and a few who had enjoyed some drinks treated the muddy water like their personal bathtub.

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Now that you've seen the Kabaka waving at the participants, you are in for another treat! There's more to come. Patrick Kibirango captured some amazing shots at the Kabaka Run, and we are about to share them with you. Are you ready? Let's roll!

The warm-up before the run!

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Up and close with the Kabaka!

Kibirango was in the right place at the right time, capturing rare close-ups of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II as he made his way from his car to the stage where he waved to his subjects. Instead of just telling you, I’d rather you see it for yourself.

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Flagged off!

When Kabaka Mutebi II flagged off the participants, of course, it was meant to be a run, but the massive crowd had other plans. The sea of people made it challenging to take a single step without dodging others. As a result, many opted for a leisurely group walk instead.

Some determined participants who got left behind hitched a ride on bodabodas (motorcycle taxis) to catch up, while others embraced the festive atmosphere, savouring a cold beer as they strolled along at their own pace.

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Finally, we are on to the last one. It has been some ride, hasn't it?  We conclude today's pictorial with some shots from Dickson Kulumba, a photojournalist and Vision Group's correspondent at Bulange Mengo. Let's dive in!"

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Had you seen a picture of the Kabaka flagging off the runners? We got you covered. Kulumba took some shots. How about you see for yourself?

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