Thousands Across Uganda Join Annual Cancer Run to Support Fight Against Cancer

What the report says

Thousands of people in Kampala and districts across Uganda took part in this year’s annual Cancer Run, an event that combines exercise with public awareness about cancer. According to Nile Post, the main race was held at Kololo Independence Grounds, where participants ran 5-kilometre, 10-kilometre and 21-kilometre distances. Similar runs were organised in other parts of the country, making the event a nationwide effort rather than a single-city gathering.

The report said the funds raised will support construction of a planned cancer ward at St Francis Hospital Nsambya. That use of proceeds gives the event a practical role beyond awareness, linking community participation to cancer treatment infrastructure. Organisers and supporters said the run continues to bring people together around a shared cause.

The article quoted participants who described the event as a long-standing commitment, and it also included comments from Centenary Bank Managing Director Godfrey Byekwaso and Rotary Club of Muyenga president Beatrice Lugalambi praising the campaign’s impact. A consultant clinical oncologist, Dr Aleesha Adatia of C-Care Uganda, said such events can encourage screening and earlier treatment. More broadly, the Cancer Run reflects a common public-health approach in Uganda and elsewhere: using mass participation events to promote prevention, early detection and support for care services.