Kabaka Birthday Run draws hundreds in Wakiso, youth urged on HIV testing

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More than 700 participants on Sunday (April 12) took part in the Kabaka Birthday Run 2026 in Wakiso town, Wakiso district. 

The runners were flagged off by the Kabaka’s Minister for Information, Ibrahim Kazibwe Kitooke, together with the Wakiso district police commander, Esther Kiiza.

The participants competed in 5km, 10km and 21km races across areas including Wakiso, Senge, Gombe, Kayunga, Kkona and Namusera, among others, under this year’s theme, “Men for Good Health and Ending AIDS by 2030”.

Minister Kazibwe rallied the youth to not only engage in physical exercise but also take responsibility for their health by testing, abstaining and sensitising their peers on how to live responsibly and avoid risky behaviour.

“We have seen many youths participating in the run every year, but very few who go for testing. I urge you to go for testing, abstain and also use condoms so that we curb AIDS by 2030 as Kabaka has rallied us,” he added.

Kazibwe said the 700 participants raised sh8 million towards the cause, and he commended them for their unity and love for the kingdom and the Kabaka.

Ronald Mutesasira of Tabula Property Consultants, also an “omwami wa Kabaka” in Nansana, said they consistently support the Kabaka’s Run every year, adding that he contributed sh5 million this year.

He added that the run has also improved their health through regular exercise and fitness. He noted that beyond physical activity, the run serves as a strong platform to rally people around HIV/AIDS awareness.

Other runners included Ahmed Wamala Muzzanganda, an “omwami wa Kabaka” in Kisimbiri in Wakiso district, as well as cultural leaders, politicians, students and others.