Men must take responsibility: Katikkiro Mayiga urges HIV testing, not fear

The Katikkiro of Buganda Charles Peter Mayiga has advised corporate companies and couples to always have the courage to test and or advise their employees to do the same for HIV/AIDS because as human beings we have the capacity to understand that sexual activity can have life-threatening consequences.

Mayiga was speaking to the different corporate representatives’ partner and sponsors recognition function at Bulange, Mengo on Friday, ahead of the Kabaka Birthday Run on Sunday.

The Kabaka Birthday Run precedes the Kabaka’s 71st Birthday celebrations and comprises of 5, 10 and 21km routes.

“As humans, we have the capacity to understand that sexual activity can have life-threatening consequences. I encourage you to share this message with your colleagues in your organizations. I think it's the best way to wake people up. Because we've got 1.5 million Ugandans with HIV AIDS. That's deadly. We need to talk directly to the people we interact with in workplaces, political offices, everywhere,” Mayiga advised.

The Katikkiro of Buganda Charles Peter Mayiga (3rd right) and the First Deputy Katikkiro Twaha Kigongo Kaawaase (2nd right) poses with representatives from KCCA at Bulange. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

“I consistently promote this approach. We must make informed decisions to ensure better health for all."

He noted that participating in events like Sunday's run raises awareness and encourages us to make smarter choices. 

"We achieve our goals by making informed decisions, including proven measures to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS in workplaces. I appreciate those who have provided condoms for this purpose," he said.

He noted that influence often gives men leverage but advised young women to have the courage to ask their partners to get tested for HIV, regardless of financial support or gifts. He advised corporates not to shy about this advice lest their employees get caught in the web. 

“Yes, the Bible says men are the heads of the families. Headship, leadership is about responsibility. You men, if we are the heads of the families, then we must be responsible. Leadership is not defined by appearance or physical traits, but by responsibility. If you are the head of a family, you must take responsibility for its well-being. I encourage women to remind their partners that leadership includes getting tested for HIV. Do not be afraid; you will achieve your goals when you are healthy. Let us work together to eliminate HIV/AIDS,” said Mayiga.

Thirty-nine corporate companies were recognised for their contribution to this year’s run. They contributed to the run also supported by New Vision and Bukedde under the gold, silver and bronze categories. 

Some of the companies that contributed included the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, Uganda Breweries (Pilsener), Uganda Baati, Kansai Plascon, Steel and Tube Industries, American Tower Company, Uganda National Oil Company and National Water and Sewarage Corporation, Bank of Uganda, Betika, National Drug Authority, KCCA among others. 

Lillian Kansiime, the Brand Manager Mainstream Beer at Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL), emphasized that the sponsorship is anchored in Pilsner’s commitment towards celebration of culture.

 “Our long-standing relationship with the Buganda Kingdom, from our sponsorship of the Masaza Cup to now the Kabaka Birthday Run, reflects Pilsner Lager’s deep appreciation for the power of culture to bring people together around shared purpose. By supporting the Kabaka Birthday Run, we are not only celebrating a meaningful cultural moment, but also strengthening our connection with our consumers by aligning with what matters to them; their identity, their values, and the experiences that unite communities,” she said.

Jackie Tahakanizibwa, the Head External Affairs at Uganda Baati said they were happy to once again stand with the Buganda Kingdom in the fight to end HIV/AIDS by 2030.

“As part of our continued commitment to improving the wellbeing of the communities we serve, we have contributed sh10m towards the Kabaka Birthday Run,” she stated. 

“In addition, at the Run, Uganda Baati will host an on-site mobile clinic tent, offering counselling and awareness materials to empower participants with knowledge that promotes healthier choices.

We believe that building strong community goes beyond providing quality roofing solutions but also actively participating in causes that uplift our people. We remain dedicated to supporting initiatives that contribute to a health