Unilever Uganda has joined the Rotary Cancer Run 2023 in the fight against cancer with a generous contribution of Shs130m.
This was announced during a press conference at the Unilever offices in Kampala on Wednesday.
Wangechi Gitahi, the Marketing Manager of Unilever Uganda, told journalists that Unilever believes in creating a bright future for all Ugandans which add vitality to life.
The Rotary Cancer Run, marking its 12th edition this year, is scheduled to take place on August 27, 2023, under the theme “Run for Hope” at Kololo Independence grounds and 40 towns and cities across the country.
“Unilever aims to empower Ugandans with knowledge about the importance of regular cancer checks and contribute to the establishment of a Radiotherapy cancer treatment facility, which will significantly enhance accessibility to vital treatment options for all,” said Gitahi.
According to Gitahi, this partnership will increase awareness about cancer, educate the public about prevention and treatment, and facilitate access to much-needed resources for cancer patients.
Michael Niyitegeka, the Rotary Cancer Run Vice Chairperson, said the August 27 run seeks to raise about Shs2bn for the ongoing construction of two cancer treatment bunkers at St. Francis Nsambya Hospital.
“We are already proud that the previous runs have contributed to the construction of a Cancer Ward at Nsambya which is serving over 800 patients annually and a blood bank in Mengo Hospital,” he noted.
He said the Radiotherapy centre under construction will play an integral role in ensuring that cancer patients have access to life-saving therapies.
According to Niyitegeka, this year’s focus will be increasing cancer awareness, promoting increased access to cancer treatment, and encouraging early cancer detection through nationwide medical camps.
The run is expected to bring together 50,000 runners.
He urged participants to register early, saying the first 300 people to buy kits will receive complimentary Unilever products like Omo, Pepsodent and Royco.
Each kit goes for Shs30,000 and can be bought electronically through http://tickets.ugandarotarycancer.org.
