Minister Mulimba Launches Rotary Cancer Run 23, Urges Ugandans to Lead Healthy Lifestyles

Hon. John Mulimba, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in Charge of Regional Corporation, has officiated at the launch of the 12th edition of the Rotary Cancer Run scheduled for 27th/08/2023 at Kololo ceremonial grounds.

In his speech, Mulimba said the event marks a significant milestone in collective efforts to fight against one of the most formidable adversaries humanity has ever faced – Cancer.

These collective efforts include; the National Cancer Control Plan/Program (NCCP), Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) Programme and National Cancer Control Steering Committee (NCCSC).

He said for decades, Rotary has been at the forefront of humanitarian efforts, making a profound impact on countless lives worldwide.

“These efforts go a long way to diminish wide disparities in cancer treatment like Gender norms, Poverty and Social economic factors such as transport, geographical divide and age.”

A National Cancer Control Programme is a public health programme designed to reduce the number of cancer cases and deaths and improve the quality of life of cancer patients through evidence-based strategies, which include; prevention, early detection and diagnosis, treatment, palliative care, survivorship, surveillance, research, policy and advocacy and inclusion for All (Special Needs, Refugees& Albinos).

In May, Government procured a new state-of-the-art Radiotherapy Treatment Machine which provides the latest in radiotherapy technology, delivering precise and effective treatment for patients. Through this, plans to increase the number of Patient Beds capacity from 120 to 365 Beds at the Cancer Institute.

“Cancer has touched the lives of so many among us, directly or indirectly. It knows no boundaries, affecting individuals of all ages, races, ethnicity, disability, lifestyle and all kind of backgrounds,” said Mulimba.

The Theme for 2023 is “Close the Care Gap: Uniting our voices and taking action.” 

He urged the public to; maintain a healthy weight/living/lifestyle, exercise regularly (running, cycling, swimming, hiking or walking, avoid smoking, have enough sleep, get screening tests and limit/regulate alcohol consumption (to zero is best).

“Additionally, there will be a call for increased cancer awareness, support advancements in diagnostics and treatment, among others.”

He said this Rotary Run/Walk is more than just a physical event. “It is a symbol of unity, solidarity as we keep in mind the countless Cancer patients and their families who face physical, emotional, and financial challenges daily.”

One of the primary goals of the Cancer Rotary Run is to raise funds to support vital Cancer Research Initiatives that push the boundaries of Medical knowledge, leading to improved treatment options, early detection methods, and ultimately, a cure for Cancer.

According to Mulimba, this will further reduce the existing wider gap between Professionals and people involved when caring for Cancer patients, improve the multidisciplinary Team’s purpose to improve coordination, communication, and decision-making between healthcare team members and patients, and hopefully produce more positive outcomes.

The Rotary team led by Dr Mike Sebalu thanked Centenary Bank for being a platinum sponsor for walking the journey for the last 12 years alongside the government of Uganda.

Allen Ayebare, Centenary Bank Chief Manager of Corporate Affairs and Communication, represented the institution at the event.