Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, led a delegation, including Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa and MPs, to Bulange, Mengo, to show support for the upcoming Kabaka Birthday Run. Scheduled for Sunday, April 7, 2024, this year’s run focuses on combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic under the theme: “Men are stars in the fight against HIV/AIDS to save the girl child.”
Speaker Among, accompanied by Government Chief Whip Hon Hamson Obua and Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness Hon Lilian Aber, was warmly received by Buganda Kingdom’s Katikkiro (Prime Minister), Charles Peter Mayiga. Mayiga described the visit as historic, signifying a new era of cooperation between the Kingdom and Parliament in promoting HIV/AIDS eradication efforts nationwide.
Mayiga emphasized the importance of prioritizing the healthcare sector in legislative agendas, advocating for accessible healthcare facilities, well-equipped with medication and staffed by adequately compensated healthcare professionals. He also urged politicians to balance political activities with addressing social needs like healthcare, sports, community development, and cultural preservation.
Speaker Among applauded Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II for championing healthcare initiatives and pledged ongoing support for the Kingdom’s humanitarian endeavors. She announced a contribution of Shs50 million from Parliament towards the run, with the Buganda Parliamentary Caucus purchasing kits for 529 MPs, worth Shs10,580,000. Additionally, the Speaker and MPs presented birthday gifts to the Kabaka.
For the 11th consecutive year, Buganda Kingdom, alongside various stakeholders, has organized the Annual Kabaka Birthday Run, using proceeds to support diverse health-related causes such as combating fistula, sickle cell disease, and now HIV/AIDS.
