By Mariam Nanyanzi
The 15th edition of the Rotary Cancer Run is expanding its focus beyond fundraising for cancer treatment, with organisers seeking to promote early detection, patient support and access to specialised care.
The 2026 run, scheduled for August 30 at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, will be held under the theme “Gwanga Mujje”, as organisers rally Ugandans to unite against a disease that continues to place a heavy medical and financial burden on families.
The campaign will combine fundraising with free cancer screening, medical camps and public awareness activities, while supporting efforts to strengthen cancer treatment infrastructure and build the capacity of health professionals.
At the centre of this year’s campaign is a Shs5 billion fundraising drive to acquire a Linear Accelerator (LINAC) machine for Nsambya Hospital, which organisers say would help ease pressure on Uganda’s limited radiotherapy services.
Uganda faces a major shortage of specialised cancer treatment equipment, with a limited number of functioning radiotherapy machines serving a population of more than 40 million people.
Chairman of the 2026 Cancer Run, Meddie Lutaaya, said the campaign is intended to restore hope among cancer patients and their families while encouraging communities to take greater responsibility for prevention and early detection.
“Cancer has ravaged this country. About 35,000 new cases are registered annually, and the most disturbing thing is that 80 percent of these patients die within their first year of diagnosis,” Lutaaya said.
He attributed part of the challenge to inadequate treatment infrastructure, saying patients often face long waits before accessing specialised care.
“The World Health Organization recommends at least one Linear Accelerator for every one million people. Uganda has about 45 million people and we are depending on one functioning accelerator. That is why we are coming in as Rotary to call upon Ugandans to contribute towards the construction and acquisition of this Linear Accelerator,” he said.
Lutaaya said organisers hope the facility can become operational within two years if the fundraising campaign receives sufficient support.
Beyond the Shs5 billion target, organisers are positioning the Cancer Run as a platform for communities to access cancer information and screening services.
Free cancer screening will be offered at Kololo on the day of the main event, alongside health education activities aimed at encouraging Ugandans to seek medical attention early rather than waiting until symptoms become severe.The campaign also seeks to address the financial burden associated with cancer treatment, which can push vulnerable households into financial distress when patients require repeated hospital visits, specialised procedures and prolonged medication.