Rotary District 9213 has unveiled the 2026 edition of the Rotary Cancer Run in Kampala, setting a fundraising target of UGX 5 billion to complete and equip a dedicated cancer treatment facility at St. Francis Hospital Nsambya with modern Linear Accelerator radiotherapy technology.
The launch in Nsambya signalled renewed national mobilisation behind cancer care access, marking 15 years of sustained citizen-led fundraising and awareness efforts that have positioned the Rotary Cancer Run among Uganda’s most impactful health initiatives.
Held under the theme Gwanga Mujje (“Come together, nation”), the 2026 campaign calls on communities across Uganda and the diaspora to unite in support of patients battling cancer.
Speaking at the launch, Rotary District Governor Geoffrey Kitakule described the initiative as a movement rooted in solidarity and hope.
He said the campaign aims to mobilise 100,000 participants nationwide to raise the required UGX 5 billion needed to finalise and equip the cancer treatment centre with advanced radiotherapy infrastructure.
Kitakule emphasised that the Rotary Cancer Run extends beyond a sporting event, serving as a platform for public awareness, screening and early detection.
More than 70 medical outreach camps are planned across the country as part of the campaign, bringing cancer education and basic screening services closer to communities and encouraging timely diagnosis.
Funds generated will support the completion of the cancer centre at Nsambya Hospital, a long-standing referral facility for oncology patients in Uganda. The installation of Linear Accelerator machines is expected to significantly enhance radiotherapy capacity and reduce the need for patients to travel long distances or endure long waiting times for treatment.
The Rotary leader also acknowledged support from national leadership, including a UGX 3 billion contribution from H.E President Yoweri Museveni and continued backing from Speaker Anita Among, noting that high-level commitment has helped sustain momentum for the cause.
Since its inception in 2011, the Rotary Cancer Run has mobilised billions of shillings and drawn tens of thousands of participants annually, evolving into a nationwide platform for cancer awareness, prevention and treatment support.
Organisers say the 2026 edition seeks to surpass previous milestones in both participation and impact, transforming collective community action into tangible progress toward accessible cancer care.
Rotary leaders expressed confidence that the spirit of Gwanga Mujje will galvanise nationwide participation, turning individual steps into a shared national stride against cancer.
