Rotary Cancer Run Uganda, in partnership with other companies, is organising an event run that is slated for August 27th, 2023, with the main event being held at Kololo Independence Grounds, alongside regional runs crossing 40 districts, towns, and cities nationwide.
According to Rtn Rittah Nakasawe, the Programme Development Officer for the Rotary Cancer Run, this year’s run will be the 12th edition in Uganda and will be held in a powerful endeavour to fight cancer and positively impact the lives of those affected by the disease.
“This year’s theme is ‘Run for Hope, with the objective of raising funds for the construction of a cancer treatment facility meant to house two bunkers at St. Francis Nsambya Hospital. We are targeting at least 50,000 runners with the aim of raising Shs 2 billion for cancer awareness and treatment access,” Nakasawe said.
The run, according to Nakasawe, would also promote early cancer identification through statewide medical camps. Nakasawe also revealed that the previous runs have contributed to the construction of a cancer ward at Nsambya and a blood bank at Mengo hospitals that are already serving over 800 patients annually.
According to Dr. Noleb Mugisha, Head of Cancer Prevention and Services at the Uganda Cancer Institute, 70% of Cancer patients died in 2021. Out of the 33000 to 34000 new cancer cases annually, only 7400 make it early to the Uganda Cancer Institute, and a total of 22,000 patients died in 2021.
The Rotary Cancer Run is an annual fundraising event organised by the Rotary Cancer Programme Uganda. The Rotary Cancer Run is dedicated to raising funds and awareness for cancer prevention and treatment.