National Youth MP Aspirant Siyemah Atukunda joins tens of thousands at Kabaka’s Birthday Run 2025

Bulange, Mengo:- The National Female Youth MP aspirant, Ms Siyemah Atukunda, on Sunday morning joined tens of thousands of Ugandans who defied the early morning downpour to take part in the much-anticipated Kabaka Birthday Run 2025.

The run, held in celebration of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s 70th birthday and in support of critical health causes, was officially flagged off by the Kabaka himself at 7:12 am.

The Kabaka first released the 21-kilometer runners, followed by the 10-kilometer and 5-kilometer categories, which wound through various streets of Kampala City.

Clad in the official run gear and beaming with energy, Siyemah ran alongside fellow youth and citizens from across the country, demonstrating her continued commitment to youth engagement, community wellness, and cultural unity.

Speaking after the run, Siyemah emphasized the importance of youth involvement in cultural and social causes: “Today was about more than running; it was about unity, health awareness, and youth participation in shaping our nation’s future. I’m honored to be part of this powerful tradition.”

The Kabaka, in his message delivered by Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, emphasized the role of men in combating HIV/AIDS. He urged them to take the lead and align themselves with the Kabaka’s vision of ending HIV by 2030.

Earlier in the week, the National Female Youth MP hopeful had paid a courtesy visit to the Katikkiro of Buganda, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, at Bulange Mengo, where she donated 100 kits to enable young Ugandans to participate in the run.

The Kabaka Birthday Run, an annual event that continues to attract massive crowds, is organized under the stewardship of the Buganda Kingdom, with a specific cause attached to each year’s edition.

This year’s edition ran under the theme “Men for Good Health to Save the Girl Child.” Proceeds from the event will support health initiatives aimed at protecting the girl child.

According to official records, Uganda continues to battle HIV/AIDS, with about 1.4 million people living with the virus and 54,000 new infections reported in 2022. The national prevalence stands at 5.1%, with adolescent girls and young women most affected.