Katikkiro Mayiga urges Ugandans to participate in 2026 Kabaka Birthday Run
Speaking at the launch of this year’s run kits on February 18, 2026, at Bulange Mengo, Mayiga stressed the role of corporate institutions in protecting communities.
Katikkiro (second from left), his ministers and some of the key sponsors during the launch. Photo by Gerald Kikulwe
Buganda’s Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga has called on Ugandans, private sector leaders, and civil society to support the 2026 Kabaka Birthday Run, part of efforts to end HIV/AIDS in Uganda by 2030.
Speaking at the launch of this year’s run kits on February 18, 2026, at Bulange Mengo, Mayiga stressed the role of corporate institutions in protecting communities.
He urged business leaders, students, and religious groups to participate, noting that wealth and progress mean little if people are lost to preventable disease.
The run will take place on April 12, 2026, ahead of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s 71st birthday celebrations on April 13.
Officials during the launch at Bulange Mengo. Photo by Gerald Kikulwe
Mayiga emphasized preventive measures: abstinence among youth, voluntary HIV testing, condom use for the unmarried, adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), and faithfulness in marriage. He said these remain key to reducing new infections.
Over the years, the Kabaka Birthday Run has expanded access to ART, now reaching more than 1.3 million Ugandans, helping many live healthy, productive lives.
First Deputy Katikkiro Twaha Kaawaase, chair of the 2026 campaign, announced that participation kits are available at UGX 25,000. Sponsors include Vision Group, Uganda AIDS Commission, Airtel Uganda, I&M Bank Uganda, and Majestic Brands.
This year marks the 13th edition of the run, expected to unite thousands in solidarity and action toward a future free of HIV/AIDS.