Kabaka Birthday Run unites 120,000 in record HIV/AIDS awareness drive

Despite the heavy rains, over 120,000 participants braved the elements in the 12th Edition of the Airtel-Kabaka Birthday Run, making it one of the largest and most impactful charity runs in Uganda.

This annual event, aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing action against HIV/AIDS, brought together thousands at Mengo Palace, where His Majesty, Kabaka Ronald Mutebi II, officially flagged off the run. The downpour did little to dampen the energy and determination of the participants, whether they were running the 5 km, 10 km, or 21 km categories.

Kabaka Ronald Mutebi II received a warm and enthusiastic reception from the crowd, who cheered as he set the run in motion. His presence underscored the event’s significance—not just as a celebration of his birthday, but as a powerful statement in Uganda’s ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS.

This year’s theme, “Men for Good Health to Save the Girl Child,” emphasized the crucial role men play in combating the virus. Proceeds from the race kits will directly support health initiatives focused on protecting the well-being of young girls, a key concern in Uganda’s fight against HIV/AIDS.

The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, reinforced the event’s broader purpose, stating, “The Kabaka Birthday Run is not just a celebration of His Majesty’s life but a rallying call to improve public health in our nation.”

I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow echoed this sentiment, highlighting the power of collective action: “There is power in coming together, and every step taken during the run is a step toward fighting HIV/AIDS and building a healthier society.” He stressed that the run is more than just a race—it’s a movement for change, uniting communities in the fight against the epidemic.

The urgency of this cause was further highlighted by the 2024 UNAIDS Global AIDS Update, which revealed that adolescent girls and young women (aged 15-24) account for 27% of new HIV infections in Eastern and Southern Africa and are three times more likely to contract HIV than their male counterparts. This alarming disparity underscores the need for initiatives like the Kabaka Birthday Run, which seeks to engage men in protecting and empowering young women.

The event also showcased remarkable inclusivity, with physically impaired participants demonstrating extraordinary resilience. Even children as young as 8 to 13 years old joined the run, proving that the fight against HIV/AIDS transcends age and ability.

The Airtel-Kabaka Birthday Run has once again proven to be more than just a race—it is a unifying force for health, awareness, and social change, inspiring Ugandans from all walks of life to stand together in the fight against HIV/AIDS.