Airtel Uganda and the Buganda Kingdom on Wednesday launched the 13th edition of the Kabaka Birthday Run, renewing their commitment to ending HIV/AIDS in Uganda by 2030.
Held at Bulange, Mengo, under the theme “Men Against HIV/AIDS to Save the Girl Child,” the event highlighted a collective determination to eliminate HIV/AIDS as a public health threat.
Over the years, the Kabaka Birthday Run has become a vital platform for awareness, prevention, and community action against HIV/AIDS. Airtel Uganda has been a key supporter of the initiative, stepping in to sustain momentum when global funding for HIV/AIDS awareness and treatment declined.
Soumendra Sahu, Managing Director and CEO of Airtel Uganda, said at the launch, “We are proud to be part of the Kabaka Birthday Run, which celebrates the Kabaka’s life while addressing pressing health challenges in our communities. Thousands of Ugandans have participated over the years, uniting to fight a cause that touches every family—the end of HIV/AIDS. Our commitment remains steadfast.”
He added, “We continue to intensify community outreach and strengthen partnerships to ensure the 2030 goal is achievable. Through our nationwide network, radio and social media campaigns, SMS outreach, and Airtel Money platforms, we are driving awareness, encouraging testing, and promoting treatment adherence.”
The Kabaka Birthday Run has been instrumental in mobilising communities and promoting preventive measures such as HIV testing, safe male circumcision, and consistent condom use. These efforts have helped Uganda approach the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, with 94% of people living with HIV knowing their status, 90% on treatment, and 97% virally suppressed.
UNAIDS data shows national HIV prevalence among adults aged 15–49 declined from 7.3% in 2010 to 4.9% in 2024. New HIV infections fell by 61%, from 96,000 to 37,000, while infections among young people (15–24) dropped by 57%, and AIDS-related deaths declined by 63%, from 56,000 in 2010 to 20,000 in 2024. Expanded access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), now reaching over 1.3 million Ugandans, has been a key driver of this progress.
Charles Peter Mayiga, Katikiro of Buganda, acknowledged the contributions of partners, stating, “We are humbled by the support of Airtel Uganda and UNAIDS in addressing societal challenges. After leading efforts against diseases like fistula and sickle cell, our King shifted focus to HIV/AIDS. Together with our partners, we are seeing tangible results. This year, we continue to encourage men to take active roles in protecting the girl child and fighting HIV/AIDS.”
The Kabaka Birthday Run 2026 promises to unite thousands of Ugandans in celebration, solidarity, and action. Airtel Uganda invites citizens to participate and support a healthier Uganda.
Soumendra concluded, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. At Airtel, we add a third rule: If you want to change the future, join the run. My kit is ready, my staff are ready, and my heart is Buganda. Let’s make the 2030 goal a reality.”
Registration & Kit Details:
Kits cost UGX 25,000 and are available at select Airtel shops, including Airtel Shop New Taxi Park, Shoprite – Ben Kiwanuka, and Thobani Centre.
Customers can also pay via Airtel Money by dialling *185*5# and collect kits at the centres. Proceeds will fund nationwide HIV/AIDS awareness and testing initiatives.