April 7, 2024 witnessed a vibrant spectacle at Lubiri in Mengo, as the Kabaka Birthday Run painted the grounds with style and creativity.

This year's theme, Men Are Stars in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS to Save the Girlchild, resonated not just in the runners' hearts, but also in their unique outfits.

The Kabaka running vest served as a blank canvas for their personal style expression.

 Joseph Bukenya, a self-proclaimed 'original designer,' stood out with his flamboyant Jamaican-style suit that he hand-crafted.

Made of velvet with horns on either side, the suit boasted oversized pockets that grazed the ground. 

“It cost me sh1m to make this outfit. I would sell it at sh1.5m to make up for my time,” he said.

Cultural pride took centre stage with George William Mpande's attire. Hailing from Musale Buwama, Mpande donned a traditional kanzu, layered with the Kabaka run vest, an animal skin symbolising his hunter heritage, and a pair of green Adidas stockings. He emphasised the importance of embracing cultural identity, particularly for the youth.

Umar Ssemwanga, also known as Zike, turned heads with his "papaya style" hairdo, a unique creation that sparked curiosity.

Zike, not bothered by the stares, revealed the monthly cost of maintaining this extravagant style – a cool one sh1m.

“Have you ever seen this hairstyle in Uganda? It costs a whole million shillings,” he said.

Nicolas Birangirangi offered a heartwarming display of support for the Kabaka. Unable to afford a physical gift, Birangirangi transformed himself into a living art piece. Wearing spectacles without lenses and painting his body in the colours of the Buganda flag, Birangirangi enthusiastically blew a vuvuzela, spreading his love for the Kabaka and the cause.

"I couldn't afford a gift," Birangirangi said, "So I decided to paint myself in the colours of Buganda."

The Kabaka Birthday Run 2024 transcended a simple race. It became a vibrant celebration of self-expression, cultural pride, and unwavering dedication to fighting HIV/AIDS and protecting the girl-child.

From the luxurious to the symbolic and the artistic, the participants showcased a dazzling sense of styles, all united under a common purpose.