I&M Bank Uganda has announced a financial injection of Shs200m towards the much-anticipated Kabaka Birthday Run 2024, slated for April 7 in Kampala.
The sponsorship agreement was solidified earlier today after the I&M Bank CEO signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Buganda Kingdom business headquarters at Bulange, Mengo.
The signing was witnessed by the Deputy Katikkiro and Minister of finance of Buganda, Oweek.Robert Waggwa Nsibiwra and the Remmy Kisakye the CEO of Majestic Brands, the organisers of the run.
This is the second consecutive year that I&M Bank has pledged to support the run, that is organised annually by the Buganda Kingdom to commemorate His Highness Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi’s birthday.
The Kabaka Birthday Run is a key fixture on the Buganda Kingdom’s annual activity calendar, that is used as a vessel to raise funds and awareness towards the fight of non-communicable diseases, especially HIV/AIDS. Since its inception in 2013, the event has helped raise awareness and funds to address diseases like Fistula and Sickle Cells.
Speaking during the signing the MOU, I&M Bank CEO- Robin Bairstow reiterated the bank’s commitment to participate in events and activities that impact the communities where the bank operates.
“As I&M Bank, we are honoured to stand alongside Buganda Kingdom on this noble cause. The Kabaka Birthday Run presents us a grand opportunity to make a tangible difference by giving back and leading the charge for change and transformation in the community, especially in the collective efforts to end the AIDS epidemic,” said Bairstow.
“This year, in August, we will be commemorating 50 years of operations in the region. I’m proud to say that it is initiatives like this one that make the celebrations more worthwhile. Our continued support for this event underscores our dedication to effecting positive change in the communities where we operate. Together with Buganda Kingdom and our community, we can take significant strides towards realising an HIV-free society,” he added
Annette Nakiyaga, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at I&M Bank, echoed Bairstow’s sentiments, emphasising the importance of collective action in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
“The battle against HIV/AIDS requires unity and commitment from all of us. Together, we can amplify our impact and make meaningful strides towards a healthier society. I urge everyone to join us in supporting the Kabaka Birthday Run, as every contribution counts,” said Ms. Nakiyaga.
In addition to its financial contribution, I&M Bank has offered select branches, including Kingdom Kampala, Kabalagala, Kawempe, and William Street, as official kit-selling points, for the convenience of customers and the public.
Kits for the Kabaka Birthday Run 2024 are going for Shs UGX 20,000, and the run is slated for Sunday April 7th.