Buganda Kingdom has announced the successful collection and utilization of Shs 2.9 billion from the Kabaka’s 70th Birthday Run, funds that have gone toward supporting the Kingdom’s large-scale HIV/AIDS response initiative launched by Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II in 2020.
The announcement was made on Tuesday at Bulange, Mengo, during a breakfast meeting where Kingdom officials hosted key partners and stakeholders who have supported the annual run.
The event provided an opportunity to present detailed accountability for the funds raised and to share progress updates on Buganda’s ongoing campaign against HIV/AIDS.
Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga commended the Kingdom’s consistent progress in reducing HIV prevalence since the Kabaka dedicated his annual run to the cause.
He noted that the initiative has not only raised funds but also heightened awareness and encouraged behavioral change among communities.
“Since His Majesty directed that the Kabaka Birthday Run focuses on fighting HIV/AIDS, we have seen a significant decline in infections. However, we continue to urge our people to remain vigilant—test regularly, protect themselves, and adhere to treatment where necessary,” Mayiga said.
Second Deputy Katikkiro and Minister of Finance, Robert Waggwa Nsibirwa, revealed that Buganda has achieved a 78% reduction in HIV spread over the past five years.
He said that before the Kingdom’s campaign began, ten districts in Buganda were among Uganda’s most affected by HIV/AIDS. Today, only Masaka, Kyotera, and Kalangala remain with high prevalence, showing the positive impact of the collective effort.
“As we celebrate these milestones, we are reminded of the big role that remains to banish HIV/AIDS from Uganda by 2030. Together, we can build stronger systems, transform more lives, and uplift the current generation for a better future,” Nsibirwa said.
In his accountability report, Nsibirwa explained that Shs 800 million was used for community sensitization and awareness campaigns, while Shs 2.1 billion went into awareness materials, testing activities, youth programs, and organizing the run.
Another Shs 21 million supported the training of cultural leaders, youth, and medical personnel, and Shs 295.7 million was spent on HIV testing kits.
A further Shs 537 million facilitated monitoring, field operations, and logistics, while Shs 723 million was dedicated to mobilization across Buganda counties and administrative activities. Over Shs 200 million was invested in marketing, security, and event organization.
These interventions, Nsibirwa noted, have contributed to the significant decline in HIV infections across Buganda and strengthened community-based health systems.
Representatives from both national and international HIV response organizations applauded Buganda’s achievements.
UNAIDS Representative Jonathan Mubangizi affirmed that HIV infections are steadily declining in Buganda and Uganda as a whole, and encouraged continued vigilance.
Uganda AIDS Commission Chairperson, Lay Canon Dr. Ruth Ssenyonyi, commended Buganda’s contribution to increasing HIV testing, treatment, and prevention efforts.
Majestic Brands CEO, Remmie Kisakye, expressed gratitude to sponsors, partners, and participants for their continued support over the 12-year tradition of the Kabaka’s Birthday Run, noting its growing social and health impact.
Since 2020, the Kabaka’s Birthday Run has been dedicated to HIV/AIDS awareness under the theme “Men for Good Health to Save the Girl Child.”
With five years of progress achieved, the Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to rallying communities and partners in the ongoing fight to end HIV/AIDS by 2030—demonstrating Buganda’s enduring dedication to social, economic, and health transformation.
