The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has called upon young people to take the lead in the fight against HIV/AIDS as Uganda struggles to find alternative solutions following the U.S. government’s decision to halt financial support for HIV prevention programs.
Mayiga made these remarks during the launch of the 12th edition of the Kabaka Birthday Run at Bulange, Mengo. The event, set to take place on April 6, 2025, will mark Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s 70th birthday.
Officially sponsored by Airtel Uganda, the running kits are now available for purchase at UGX 20,000.
Speaking at the launch, the Katikkiro emphasized the need for urgent action, especially in light of the withdrawal of U.S. funding, which has significantly affected Uganda’s HIV/AIDS prevention programs.
“We have an existential threat, and that is the insufficiency of funds and resources required to fight the scourge. As we all heard, the current US administration is cutting down expenditure, and we know that the operations of USAID, the agency through which most funds for fighting HIV are channeled, have been stopped, now is the time for pragmatism.” Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayega said.
He urged young people to adopt preventive measures such as condom use and male circumcision, which have been proven to reduce the risk of HIV infection.
“I urge the young people to popularize the condoms, to go for circumcision. The experts tell us that circumcision can save and save, you know, from the danger of contracting HIV AIDS. We must save some money ourselves at an individual level and a family level to take care of our lives, our loved ones, especially those afflicted with HIV, AIDS.” He added.
Mayiga also called on the Ugandan government to prioritize healthcare funding and reallocate resources from less critical areas to sustain HIV/AIDS prevention programs in the wake of the funding freeze.
“I call upon the government as a pragmatic step to prioritize health and to save money for other less critical areas from other less critical areas so that the HIV AIDS prevention programs are not affected, especially in the face of the freeze of funding from USAID, which is the biggest donor agency in the world.” He added.
The Katikkiro applauded Airtel Uganda for its continued sponsorship of the Kabaka Birthday Run and encouraged Ugandans, particularly the Baganda, to purchase running kits. Proceeds from the event will contribute to efforts aimed at reducing HIV infections and providing treatment for those already affected.
Speaking on behalf of Airtel Uganda’s Managing Director, Soumendra Sahu, HR Director Flavia Ntambi Lwanga stressed the need for renewed efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and improve community well-being.
“Uganda has seen a decline in HIV/AIDS cases. However, there is still work to be done, as some areas are experiencing rising HIV prevalence among youth and women. We must rally together to support these communities.” She said
Lwanga also announced that the official kit for the 12th edition of the run will cost UGX 20,000 and can be purchased online by dialing 1855*5#.
Sarah Nakku Kibuuka, the UNAIDS Country Community Mobilization and Networking Adviser, expressed concern over the impact of the funding freeze by the U.S. government.
“I cannot guarantee that by 2030 we will have eliminated HIV/AIDS. The funding freeze under the Donald Trump administration is affecting us significantly. The U.S. was covering over 68% of Uganda’s HIV/AIDS response, and this gap cannot be bridged in just a few months,” Nakku noted.
She further explained that while the Ugandan government contributes funds, they primarily go toward purchasing antiretroviral drugs.
“Uganda needs $141 million per year for HIV/AIDS medication, yet the government only contributes $65 million. The U.S. was also funding critical services such as condom distribution, HIV testing kits, and voluntary male circumcision. The funding freeze will have a major impact on our fight against HIV/AIDS,” she added.
The Kabaka Birthday Run is set to take place on April 6, with over 120,000 participants expected. Ugandans, government agencies, associations, and civil society organizations are encouraged to purchase kits early, as demand is expected to be high. The kits are available for only UGX 20,000 at various airtel recommend centres.
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