Here’s a bold statement: A single event has just raised nearly 3 billion shillings to combat HIV/AIDS in Uganda, and it’s changing lives in ways you might not expect. The Buganda Kingdom has announced a groundbreaking achievement in its fight against HIV/AIDS, revealing that Shs2.9 billion raised through the Kabaka’s 70th Birthday Run has been strategically invested in prevention, testing, and awareness programs across the region. But here’s where it gets even more inspiring—this isn’t just about numbers; it’s about a community coming together to rewrite its future.
The announcement came during a partners’ breakfast meeting at Bulange, Mengo, where officials not only accounted for every shilling raised but also shared the remarkable progress of the campaign launched by Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II in 2020. And this is the part most people miss: Since the Kabaka dedicated his annual run to this cause, HIV prevalence in Buganda has seen a dramatic decline, proving that targeted community efforts can yield extraordinary results.
Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga highlighted the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to this mission. “Since His Majesty directed that the Kabaka Birthday Run focuses on fighting HIV/AIDS, we’ve witnessed a significant drop in infections,” Mayiga said. “But our work isn’t done. We urge everyone to stay vigilant—get tested regularly, protect yourselves, and stick to treatment.”
Now, let’s dive into the numbers, because they tell a story of hope and transformation. Second Deputy Katikkiro and Minister of Finance Robert Waggwa Nsibirwa revealed that HIV transmission rates in Buganda have plummeted by 78 percent in just five years. To put that in perspective, before the campaign, ten districts in Buganda were among Uganda’s hardest-hit areas. Today, only Masaka, Kyotera, and Kalangala face significant challenges. Controversial question: Could this model of community-led initiatives be the key to eradicating HIV/AIDS globally?
The Shs2.9 billion was allocated thoughtfully: Shs800 million for community sensitization, Shs2.1 billion for testing and awareness programs, Shs295.7 million for HIV testing kits, Shs537 million for field operations, and Shs723 million for county-level mobilization. Nsibirwa emphasized, “Our transparency shows the real impact of community-driven efforts. But as we celebrate, we’re reminded of the work ahead to eliminate HIV/AIDS in Uganda by 2030. Together, we can build stronger systems and secure a better future.”
UNAIDS Representative Jonathan Mubangizi praised Buganda’s leadership, noting that infections are steadily declining across the region. Uganda AIDS Commission Chairperson Lay Canon Dr. Ruth Ssenyonyi added that Buganda’s sustained involvement has boosted testing, treatment, and behavioral change efforts. Meanwhile, Majestic Brands CEO Remmie Kisakye thanked sponsors and partners for supporting the 12-year tradition of the Kabaka Birthday Run.
The campaign, themed “Men for Good Health to Save the Girl Child,” continues to mobilize men and youth to drive health and social transformation. With five years of progress under its belt, the Buganda Kingdom has reaffirmed its pledge to eradicate HIV/AIDS and improve livelihoods across its communities.
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: If community-led initiatives like this can achieve such remarkable results, why aren’t more regions adopting similar models? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation that could inspire change far beyond Buganda.
