KAMPALA . A total of Shs3.billion has been raised to fight cancer during the 14th annual Rotary Cancer Run held over the weekend .
The spirit to save lives saw an estimated 60,000 people take part in the 5km, 10km and 21km races across the country.
The record-breaking Shs3.5 billion raised this year is an increase from last year’s Shs2.1 billion. The funds are earmarked for the completion of two specialised bunkers at the Rotary Cancer Centre at Nsambya Hospital. These structures will house two Linear Accelerator machines, which are vital for modern cancer treatment.
As a key strategic partner, Centenary Bank donated over Shs600m this year alone. This brings their total contribution over the past 13 editions to over Shs3b.
Dr Fabian Kasi, Managing Director of Centenary Bank, expressed gratitude to all participants.
“You have given partners like Centenary Bank a chance at making a difference in the health sector, particularly in cancer,” he said.
Emmanuel Katongole, the chief runner and a visionary behind the project, emphasised the collective determination in the fight against cancer.
“We’re fighting a great battle and we shall win the war on cancer,” he said.
Katongole confirmed that upon completion of the Nsambya Cancer Centre, the project’s focus will shift to acquiring additional equipment and training skilled personnel.
Lucky runner wins land title
The event concluded on a high note with a surprise reward for one fortunate participant.
Lynette Najjemba, a Project Manager at Red Cross Uganda, won a land title courtesy of Bakaima Real Estates. The lucky winner, selected in a random draw, said the news had yet to sink in.
“I didn’t have plans to acquire land so quickly. I now need to sit and plan properly on how I’m going to utilise it,” she said.
Karim Kawesa, Managing Director of Bakaima Real Estates, presented the prize, highlighting their commitment to making a tangible contribution to people’s lives through the Cancer Run.