The Rotary Cancer Program Uganda has officially launched the 14th edition of the Rotary Cancer Run, setting a fundraising target of UGX 4 billion to complete the final phase of a modern cancer treatment facility at Nsambya Hospital.
This year’s edition was activated at Next Media Park on Wednesday, July 9. Next Media, through its platforms NBS and AfroMobile, was unveiled as the official media partner for the run.
Scheduled for August 31, 2025, the event is expected to draw over 80,000 participants in Kampala and across more than 100 cities worldwide. Under the theme “Running for a Cause,” the run will be broadcast on NBS Sport and streamed on AfroMobile, enabling wide access for supporters who may not attend in person.
Samuel Ngabwaki, Chair of the 2025 Rotary Cancer Run Fundraising Committee, emphasized that proceeds from the run will go toward completing radiation bunkers at the cancer center.
“We are now in the final phase of construction, which needs UGX 4 billion. These bunkers will house linear accelerator machines vital for advanced cancer treatment,” he said.
Ngabwaki also highlighted past achievements of the Rotary Cancer Run, which include the construction of a 36-bed cancer ward and support for a Rotary blood bank in Mengo.
He praised Next Media for its strategic support. “Next Media are platinum partners. Their platforms allow us to spread awareness and mobilise communities. They’re literally holding our hands as we walk into these communities,” he noted.
Ben Mwine, Head of Corporate Affairs and Partnerships at Next Media, reaffirmed their commitment to the initiative. “At Next Media, our mission is to inform to transform. Supporting the Rotary Cancer Run aligns with our values of positive community impact,” he said.
Next Media CFO Calvin Mugume encouraged the public to participate. “It’s a chance for everyone to contribute meaningfully. I’ll be there with my family and our entire finance department,” he said.
NBS Head of Editorial Operations, Ismail Sembatya, urged Ugandans to “show up at Kololo and defeat cancer together,” while news anchor Tracey Kansiime described the event as both personal and communal.
“Cancer affects us all. Being part of the run means we’re helping those who are fighting for their lives,” she said.
The 2025 edition, officially launched by Rotary International President Stephanie Urchick in January, will also feature a medical expo on August 30, offering cancer screening and awareness services.
The main run will take place at Kololo Independence Grounds, with simultaneous events in towns across Uganda and cities abroad. Race categories will include 3km, 5km, 10km, 15km, and 21km, welcoming participants of all ages and fitness levels.
Uganda continues to face a growing cancer burden, with an estimated 35,000 new cases and more than 22,000 deaths annually—many due to late detection. This year’s run aims not only to raise funds but also to deliver a vital message about early screening and treatment.
