The security agencies have issued measures to safeguard participants during the 2026 Kabaka Birthday Run scheduled for April 12th.
The event, according to the Buganda Kingdom leaders, will intensify calls for HIV prevention and responsible living.
The Uganda Police Force said it is working jointly with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), the counterterrorism directorate and Buganda Kingdom officials to ensure a secure environment for the thousands expected to attend.
Deputy Police spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan Area, Luke Owoyesigyire said the annual run attracts large crowds, including the Kabaka, dignitaries and members of the public, necessitating heightened vigilance.
“Comprehensive security measures have been put in place to guarantee a safe and successful event,” Mr Owoyesigyire said, adding that both uniformed and plain-clothed officers will be deployed along all running routes.
The race will cover 5km, 10km and 20km distances, with security teams stationed across the routes and at key access points.
Authorities said entry to the main venue at Mengo will be restricted to participants wearing official running kits.
“Those carrying suspicious or dangerous items will not be allowed into the venue,” Mr Owoyesigyire warned, urging the public to cooperate with security personnel and observe traffic guidelines to avoid disruptions.
Police Community Liaison Officer, Aisha Kayongo, said police will also take part in the run as part of promoting public health and community engagement.
“As police, our role goes beyond providing security. We are part of this initiative and will participate alongside other Ugandans,” Dr Kayongo said.
She noted that officers have been engaged in preparatory meetings with organisers to streamline coordination and response plans.
Dr Kayongo added that patrol vehicles, foot patrol teams and ambulances have been deployed to handle emergencies.
“Our priority is to ensure that everyone is safe throughout the event. We have standby teams ready to respond to any eventualities,” she said, stressing that security and health are key to national development.
She added that as police, they cannot achieve development without a secure environment and a healthy population.
The Katikkiro of the Buganda Kingdom, Mr Charles Peter Mayiga, urged organisations to take a proactive role in sensitising employees about the importance of HIV testing and responsible relationships.
Speaking at Bulange, Mengo, Mr Mayiga challenged workers, especially women, to take charge of their health by insisting on testing before engaging in sexual relationships.
“Women should be bold enough to ask their partners to go for testing. This is how we protect lives and ensure that our institutions continue to grow,” he said.
He cautioned married couples against infidelity, noting that extramarital affairs remain a major setback in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
“For those who are married, remain faithful and avoid behaviours that expose you to risk,” he added.
The premier warned that the human tendency to seek pleasure, particularly in social settings such as bars, often places individuals at risk of infection.
Kabaka birthday run is one of the main pre-activities ahead of the official birthday of the Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, which will take place at Orthodox Church Namungoona on Monday, April 13.