By Ben Musanje
Excitement is building in Kampala as East African Medical Vitals (EAMV) makes a bold move by joining hands with the Buganda Kingdom for the 2026 Kabaka’s Birthday Run, one of the country’s biggest public health events.
In a strong show of support, the company confirmed its role as a Silver Sponsor for the 13th edition of the run, backing the event with a contribution of UGX 10 million. The money was officially handed over on March 31, 2026, at Bulange in Mengo in a ceremony that drew attention to the growing partnership between the private sector and cultural institutions.
The funds were presented by Managing Director Brian Kavuya to the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, marking another step in a partnership that is quickly gaining momentum.
This year’s run carries a powerful message. Under the theme focused on men taking responsibility for good health, the campaign is pushing for stronger action to protect families, save the girl child, and end HIV/AIDS by 2030. The message is clear and urgent, men must step up in the fight against the disease.
EAMV says its involvement is not just about sponsorship, but about standing at the front of a national health struggle. The company, known as the first manufacturer of surgical gloves on the African continent, says it is proud to support efforts that bring communities together to fight HIV and improve health awareness.
The Buganda Kingdom welcomed the support with open arms. The Katikkiro Mayiga praised the company for its continued commitment, pointing out that its products, especially medical gloves, play a key role in Uganda’s healthcare system. He also stressed that the fight against HIV cannot be left to a few people, calling on men across the country to take responsibility and lead the effort to stop new infections.
Uganda has made progress over the years in dealing with HIV/AIDS, but the situation is still serious. Around 1.4 million people are living with HIV, and the adult infection rate remains between 5 and 5.4 percent. Access to treatment has improved, helping to reduce deaths, but the danger is far from over.
According to the UNAIDS, more than 50,000 new infections are still recorded every year. Young girls and women are the most affected, facing a higher risk than other groups. This reality is raising concern and pushing leaders to call for stronger action.
Events like the Kabaka’s Birthday Run are now seen as more than just celebrations. They have become powerful tools to spread awareness, mobilize communities, and push the country closer to ending HIV/AIDS.
The growing partnership between companies like East African Medical Vitals and cultural leaders is also sending a strong message, that fighting HIV is not just a government job. It requires everyone, from businesses to communities, working together.
The Kabaka Birthday Run will take place on April 12, 2026, a day before marks his 71st birthday, continuing a tradition that has become one of Africa’s largest public health advocacy events.
As the countdown to the run begins, one thing is becoming clear. This year’s event is not just about marking a birthday. It is shaping up to be a major moment in Uganda’s ongoing fight to protect lives and secure a healthier future. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
