Thousands line up at Kololo Independence Ground to participate in 2026 Cancer Run. Photo By Joseph Kiggundu
By Joseph Kiggundu
Thousands of Ugandans across different districts have taken part in this year’s Cancer Run, coming together to raise awareness and support efforts to fight cancer in the country.
The main event was held at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, where participants competed in 5-kilometre, 10-kilometre and 21-kilometre races.
Similar runs were held in different parts of the country, turning the annual event into a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about cancer and mobilise resources for treatment.
Funds raised during this year’s run will go towards the construction of a multibillion cancer ward at St Francis Hospital Nsambya.
For Dani Mushabe and Ethan Mushabe, who have participated in the Cancer Run since 2016, the event has become an important annual commitment.
“It has always been a great honour to take part in the Cancer Run and give back to the community. This is something we should never take for granted,” they said.
Centenary Bank Managing Director Godfrey Byekwaso thanked participants for supporting the event, saying the run continues to play an important role in raising awareness about cancer.
Some of the Rotarians from Rotary Club of Mengo led by their President Fred Kafeero pose for the group picture after participating in the 2026 Rotary Cancer Run at Kololo Independence Ground on Sunday August 30 2026. Photo By Joseph Kiggundu
“This run has helped a lot in creating awareness in our communities towards fighting this dangerous disease, cancer,” Byekwaso said.
Rotary Club of Muyenga president Beatrice Lugalambi expressed optimism about the impact of continued efforts to combat the disease.
“With the efforts we are putting into the fight against cancer, we remain optimistic that this will become a successful fight,” Lugalambi said.
Dr Aleesha Adatia, a consultant clinical oncologist at C-Care Uganda, said the Cancer Run is encouraging more people to take cancer screening seriously and seek treatment early.
“The Cancer Run increases awareness, and many people have opted to go for check-ups and get early treatment. It is also a way of exercising, which keeps our bodies healthy and helps us fight diseases,” Adatia said.
District Governor Dr Gerald Obai from Rotary Club of Gulu, District 9213 pose for the group picture with Rota kids, Rotaractors and Rotarians during the 2026 Rotary Cancer Run at Kololo Independence Group on Sunday August 30th, 2026. Photo By Joseph Kiggundu
The annual event has continued to combine physical fitness with cancer awareness, providing a platform for communities to come together and support efforts to improve cancer care.
With participants joining the run from across Uganda and funds being directed towards the planned cancer ward at St Francis Hospital Nsambya, organisers and stakeholders hope the campaign will contribute to greater awareness, early detection and improved access to cancer treatment.