Hundreds and hundreds of runners thronged different centers where they were flagged off for the13th edition of the Rotary Cancer Run.
Besides keeping fit, the runners are determined to make sure that Cancer is kicked out of Uganda through sensitization as well as contributing to setting up the standard facilities for cancer patients at Nsambya Hospital, targeted to be completed by 2027.
Governor Steven Mwanje, the chairman of the Rotary Cancer Run, said because of the collective efforts of this run, the state-of-the-art cancer center and bunker at Nsambya Hospital will soon be complete. He extended his deepest appreciation to all participants, including those from 30 cities around the world.
He revealed that “There are 35,000 new cases of cancer in Uganda, with 22,000 resulting in death. Late diagnosis is why they die and so over the years, we have partnered with hospitals and health camps to combat this cancer, and we aim to establish a cancer center in Nsambya for radiotherapy, with a funding gap of Ug.Shs 9 billion. The Cancer Center will be unveiled by 2027, with 3 billion allocated this year. We invite many partners to come on board by getting a kit your will help us reach this milestone.”
On her part, the President of the Rotary Club of Mukono-Namilyango, Rotarian Mable Claire Nankya, emphasised the importance of visibility in cancer awareness.
“It is crucial for every Ugandan to engage in activities that enhance cancer visibility,” said Nankya. “Our collective efforts can make a significant difference in the fight against this disease.”
Nankya also highlighted the club’s commitment to environmental stewardship. “As we work towards raising awareness about cancer, we must also address climate change. I urge everyone to contribute to environmental restoration and offset the impacts of climate change.”
Adding to the call for environmental action, Past Assistant Governor, Rotarian Henry Luzinda, encouraged the public to take proactive steps in cleaning their surroundings.
“Our environment is our responsibility,” Luzinda stated. “By taking action to clean and restore our communities, we contribute to a healthier planet.”
The Cancer Run has made a profound impact in the fight against cancer over the past twelve years, raising a staggering Ushs. 4.36 billion.
This remarkable achievement has led to the establishment of a 36-bed cancer treatment center, equipping the center with vital equipment worth over USD 150,000, and constructing two bunkers to house state-of-the-art Linear Accelerator cancer testing and treatment machines.
Additionally, funds from earlier runs have made significant contributions, including the construction of the Rotary-Centenary Bank Cancer Ward, at St. Francis Hospital Nsambya, using funds from 2012-2014, and the establishment of the Rotary Blood Bank at Mengo Hospital with Ushs. 200m from the 2015 run, and support for phase 1A of the cancer center’s (bankers) construction from 2016-2021.
These accomplishments demonstrate the Rotary Cancer Run’s significant strides in combating cancer, and we look forward to continued progress and impact in the years to come.
