Airtel Uganda and Buganda Kingdom launch 13th Kabaka Birthday Run to combat HIV/AIDS

Airtel Uganda, in partnership with the Buganda Kingdom, has launched the 13th edition of the Kabaka Birthday Run, reaffirming their commitment to the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS.

The event, held at Bulange, Mengo, carried the theme “Men Against HIV/AIDS to Save the Girl Child” and highlighted the shared objective of eradicating HIV/AIDS as a public health threat in Uganda by 2030.

Since its inception, the Kabaka Birthday Run has grown into a major platform for raising awareness, promoting HIV prevention, and mobilizing collective action.

Airtel Uganda has been a long-time supporter of key Kingdom initiatives, particularly the Kabaka Birthday Run. In a time when global funding for HIV/AIDS awareness and treatment faced setbacks, Airtel stepped in to ensure the momentum was maintained.

Speaking at the event launch, Soumendra Sahu, Managing Director and CEO of Airtel Uganda, emphasized the importance of continued support for the initiative.

“We are honored to be part of the Kabaka Birthday Run once again.

It’s not just a celebration of the Kabaka’s life but also an opportunity to address critical health challenges, with HIV/AIDS being a priority.

Over the years, thousands of Ugandans have participated, not only to honor the Kabaka but also to stand together in the fight to end HIV/AIDS, a cause that affects us all. The progress made has been significant.”

Sahu also highlighted Airtel’s ongoing role in strengthening HIV/AIDS awareness across Uganda.

“Even as global support waned, Airtel remained committed, amplifying the message through various platforms including our nationwide network, radio partnerships, social media, SMS campaigns, and Airtel Money services.

We are relentless in our efforts to promote HIV testing, prevention, and treatment adherence as we work toward the 2030 goal.”

The Kabaka Birthday Run has had a significant impact in mobilizing communities to take preventive measures, such as HIV testing, male circumcision, and condom use.

These initiatives have played a critical role in Uganda’s progress toward achieving the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, with 94% of people living with HIV knowing their status, 90% receiving treatment, and 97% maintaining viral suppression.

According to UNAIDS, Uganda has made considerable strides in reducing HIV prevalence.

The national HIV prevalence among adults aged 15–49 has declined from 7.3% in 2010 to 4.9% in 2024. Similarly, new HIV infections have fallen by 61%, from 96,000 in 2010 to 37,000 in 2024.

Among youth aged 15–24, infections have decreased by 57%, and AIDS-related deaths have dropped by 63%, from 56,000 in 2010 to 20,000 in 2024.

The widespread availability of antiretroviral therapy (ART), now reaching over 1.3 million Ugandans, has been a key factor in these positive outcomes.

During the launch, Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikiro of Buganda, thanked Airtel Uganda and other sponsors, including UNAIDS, for their unwavering support. “We are deeply grateful to our partners like Airtel Uganda, whose contributions have been pivotal in addressing pressing health challenges within our communities.

HIV/AIDS has caused much devastation, but with a focus on prevention and treatment, we are making significant strides. This year, we are continuing the fight and call on all Ugandans to join us in this crucial mission.

We particularly urge men to take a more active role in protecting the girl child, as many new infections can be traced back to male-related causes.”

The 2026 Kabaka Birthday Run is set to be a landmark event, bringing together thousands of Ugandans in a unified effort to eliminate HIV/AIDS by 2030.

Airtel Uganda has called on all citizens to participate and contribute to a healthier, more resilient Uganda.

“Together, we can make a lasting impact,” said Soumendra Sahu in his closing remarks.

“At Airtel, we believe in going beyond the present to shape a healthier future.

We are ready, and we invite all Ugandans to join the run, support this cause, and ensure a healthier tomorrow for all.”

Kits for the event are priced at UGX 20,000 and can be purchased at selected Airtel outlets, including Airtel Shop New Taxi Park, Shoprite – Ben Kiwanuka, and Thobani Centre.

Additionally, customers can pay via Airtel Money by dialing 1855# and collect their kits from any of the mentioned locations.

Proceeds from the sale of the kits will directly fund HIV/AIDS awareness and testing initiatives across Uganda.