The Katikiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has urged the public to take personal responsibility as part of the ways to continue the fight against HIV/AIDS.
“I call on young people to embrace condom use, practice abstinence, and consider circumcision,” said Katikiro. “Experts have informed us that circumcision helps reduce the risk of contracting HIV/AIDS. It is crucial that we all take personal responsibility, as this is the best way to continue the fight. This is how we will ultimately win it.”
Katikiro made the remarks during the launch of the 2025 Kabaka Birthday Run, which also featured the unveiling of the official 2025 run kit. The theme for this year’s event, scheduled for Sunday, April 6, 2025, is “Men for Good Health to Save the Girl Child and the Fight to End HIV/AIDS by 2030.” This theme emphasizes the importance of men’s involvement in health initiatives.
He went on to highlight that the Kabaka remains deeply committed to this cause. “Since the inception of the Kabaka Birthday Run, our practice has been to focus on a health theme for three years. However, in alignment with UNAIDS’ global effort to eradicate HIV/AIDS by 2030, we decided to extend our commitment because HIV/AIDS continues to be a significant threat affecting all people indiscriminately,” the Katikiro added.
At the event, I&M Bank Uganda reaffirmed its role as the official bank partner. The bank’s CEO, Robin Bairstow, expressed his excitement about the continued partnership with Buganda Kingdom in supporting the Kabaka Birthday Run, which he described as a significant event on their calendar.
“The Kabaka Birthday Run is not only an opportunity to celebrate His Majesty Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, but also a platform to work toward a future where HIV/AIDS will no longer be a threat,” Bairstow said.
“I commend the Buganda Kingdom for its intentional focus on public health. Their dedication to improving community well-being through initiatives like this is truly inspiring, and we are honored to be partners in this endeavor.”
Annette Nakiyaga, I&M Bank’s Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to initiatives that create a tangible impact on people’s lives.
“I&M Bank remains committed to supporting projects that drive positive change and enhance community well-being. We believe that initiatives like the Kabaka Birthday Run are essential in building a healthier future for all,” Nakiyaga said.
Sarah Nakku Kibuuka, the UNAIDS Community Mobilisation & Networking Advisor, addressed the challenges the fight against HIV/AIDS is likely to face due to funding constraints resulting from a funding freeze by the US government. However, she encouraged the promotion of prevention methods as an immediate solution to combat the disease.
Canon Dr. Ruth Senyonyi, the Chairperson of the Uganda AIDS Commission, expressed her gratitude to the Buganda Kingdom for its ongoing efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS, particularly in reducing stigma.
She shared that in 2024, Uganda recorded an HIV prevalence rate of 5.1% among adults aged 15 to 49, with women at a higher prevalence (6.6%) compared to men (3.6%). The rate was notably higher among women in urban areas (9.8%) compared to rural areas (6.7%). Additionally, HIV prevalence among children aged 0-14 was recorded at 0.5%.
