KAMPALA — A vibrant atmosphere filled the Lubiri at Mengo early Sunday morning as thousands of Buganda Kingdom subjects gathered for the annual Kabaka Birthday Run to celebrate the 71st birthday of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II.
Crowds from across the country began arriving at the palace grounds as early as 5 a.m. for the event, which has become a primary fixture in marking the monarch’s birthday celebrations. The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, arrived shortly before the start of the race to join participants and show his support.
At 7:36 a.m., the Kabaka arrived at the Lubiri accompanied by the Nnaabagereka Sylvia Nagginda and was received by cheering subjects. He officially flagged off the run at 8 a.m., marking the 13th edition of the event since it began in 2014. Participants competed in 21-kilometer, 10-kilometer and 5-kilometer categories.
While addressing the crowd, Katikkiro Mayiga urged the people of Buganda to remain united and steadfast in their loyalty to the Kabaka. He emphasized the importance of implementing the Kabaka’s directive to fight HIV/AIDS and called on men to take a leading role in protecting the girl child and promoting health awareness. He rallied participants to commit to the cause and encouraged men to publicly pledge their support in the fight against the disease.
German Ambassador Matthias Schauer, who participated in the 21-kilometer race, commended the Kabaka and the Buganda Kingdom for the initiative. Schauer noted that the run has contributed to improving health awareness throughout Uganda and expressed pride in participating for the fifth time.
Owek. Robert Serwanga Ssalongo, the Buganda Kingdom minister for youth, sports and arts, thanked partners and participants for their support. He encouraged the public to continue taking part in ongoing birthday celebrations, including the main event scheduled to take place at Namugongo Orthodox Church.
David Birungi, representing main sponsor Airtel Uganda, applauded the large turnout. He urged the public to remain committed to the fight against HIV/AIDS and expressed hope that the disease will be significantly reduced by 2030.
The Kabaka Birthday Run remains a significant cultural and health awareness event in Uganda, drawing thousands of people annually to support the kingdom’s campaigns.
