Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has reaffirmed its dedication to the fight against HIV/AIDS by supporting the 2024 Kabaka Birthday Run with medical kits worth UGX 12 million, strengthening national and cultural efforts to curb the disease.The donation was officially handed over to the Buganda Kingdom at Bulange Mengo by a KCCA delegation led by the Deputy Executive Director, David Luyimbazi, during a ceremony held on Friday, April 5, 2024.The event attracted key leaders and stakeholders, including the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, ministers from the Kingdom, development partners, and members of the KCCA Council, reflecting the wide support behind the annual run.Speaking at the ceremony, Luyimbazi praised the Buganda Kingdom for its consistent leadership in championing social causes, noting that the Kabaka Birthday Run has become a powerful platform for mobilising communities against HIV/AIDS.He stressed that the fight against HIV requires collective responsibility, adding that KCCA stands firmly with partners committed to protecting lives and securing a healthier future for all Ugandans.Luyimbazi also revealed that KCCA staff would actively take part in the run, demonstrating the Authority’s hands-on involvement in community initiatives that go beyond policy into real action.The 11th Kabaka Birthday Run, slated for Sunday, April 7, 2024, is being held under the theme, “Men are stars in the fight against HIV/AIDS to save the Girl Child,” highlighting the critical role of men in prevention and protection efforts.Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga applauded KCCA for its continued support and called upon the public and institutions to rally behind the cause, emphasizing that unity is key to defeating HIV/AIDS.With Uganda currently home to an estimated 1.5 million people living with HIV and about 1,000 new infections recorded weekly, proceeds from the run will directly support prevention and treatment efforts, advancing the shared vision of ending HIV/AIDS by 2030 as the run begins and ends at the Kabaka’s Palace in Lubiri, Mengo.
