Rotary President Urchick Launches 2025 Cancer Run

The Rotary Cancer Run, now in its 14th year, stands as the largest health mobilisation tool in the country, drawing global attention and support.

Rotary International President Stephanie Urchick launched the 2025 Rotary Cancer Run, setting an ambitious goal of raising $1 million (about Shs3.7bn) to combat cancer in Uganda.

The event, now in its 14th year, stands as the largest health mobilisation tool in the country, drawing global attention and support.

The highlight of the digital launch was President Urchick’s leadership and personal contribution.

She became the first donor to the campaign’s GoFundMe initiative, purchasing the cancer run kit at $100 (about Shs370,000).

Speaking passionately, she unveiled this year’s theme, “Many Cancers, One Race,” and encouraged global participation.

“For 13 years, Rotary has been an action-packed organization, touching countless lives. This year, let’s create even more magic together,” she said.

Her announcement was accompanied by the unveiling of the 2025 Rotary Cancer Run Kit and a groundbreaking fundraising smartphone app.

The app allows donors worldwide to contribute effortlessly by scanning a QR code, expanding the campaign's reach.

USAID was also announced as the latest Platinum sponsor, committing $756,000 over the next three years on behalf of the US government.

A representative from USAID highlighted the urgent need to address Uganda’s rising cancer cases.

"Investing in early detection, treatment, and palliative care is critical,” she noted. “Through partnerships with Rotary and Uganda, we are building resilient communities and improving health outcomes. If it makes development sense, we want to partner with you.”

This substantial commitment, equivalent to Shs2.7 billion, will benefit over 216,000 people, focusing on integrated health services like cancer screenings for breast and prostate cancers, as well as HIV testing and treatment.

Next Media Services joined the campaign as a key sponsor, amplifying awareness, while Centenary Bank pledged Shs500 million to support the run.

The Rotary Cancer Run 2025, slated for August 31, aims to fund the construction of radiotherapy bunkers at Nsambya Hospital, addressing critical gaps in cancer treatment infrastructure.

Ms Urchick, now a goodwill ambassador for the initiative, called on people worldwide to register, donate, and participate.

The rotary cancer run is not just a race in Uganda but has evolved into a movement, reminding the nation to rally together to build a future where no one fights cancer alone.

The launch marked a pivotal moment for Rotary’s fight against cancer, uniting individuals, organizations, and governments under a shared vision.