Leaders, residents, and members of the business community in Amolatar District turned out in large numbers on Sunday for a charity marathon held in celebration of Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s birthday, with organizers using the occasion to raise awareness about pressing health and social challenges.
The run, staged at Boma Grounds—described by local leaders as the “center of Uganda”—was flagged off by Resident District Commissioner Francis Okello Rwotlonyo, who said the event was designed to promote unity, hope, and community-driven support initiatives.
“We are running for hope, we are running for charity,” Rwotlonyo said. “As Amolatar District, we decided to localize this run and include everyone—the students, the business community, farmers, and residents—so that they embrace it as their own.”
The marathon mirrored similar celebrations held in other parts of the country, particularly in Kampala, but district leaders emphasized the importance of extending such initiatives to rural communities.
Rwotlonyo said the event also aimed at addressing growing concerns among young people and restoring optimism in the community.
“Today is not just about the birthday; it is about restoring hope in a generation. The presence of many young people here shows that there is hope in Amolatar,” he said.
Beyond the celebrations, leaders used the platform to draw attention to serious challenges affecting the district, including rising cases of gender-based violence, mental health issues, and chronic illnesses such as Sickle Cell Disease and Cancer.
Participants were scheduled to proceed to Amolatar Health Centre IV after the run, where charity activities were planned, including the distribution of essential items to patients and free medical testing services.
Senior Medical Officer Walter Luru said the district is witnessing a worrying rise in non-communicable diseases, which are increasingly placing pressure on both families and the local health system.
“We are managing a large number of cases, including HIV/AIDS, sickle cell, diabetes, and hypertension,” Dr. Luru said. “Currently, we handle over 600 sickle cell cases per quarter, most of them children. This places a heavy burden on families and the health system.”
He also expressed concern over the low uptake of screening services, particularly among young couples, citing limited availability of testing kits as a major constraint.
“Opportunities like this help us mobilize resources and encourage people to come for testing. We need more supplies and stronger community involvement to reduce the burden,” he said.
Health officials encouraged residents to adopt healthier lifestyles, noting that regular physical activity, including participation in community runs, can play a significant role in preventing conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
The marathon was funded through local contributions, with organizers emphasizing community ownership of both the celebration and the charity initiative. Leaders said the event reflects Amolatar’s broader commitment to strengthening social cohesion while addressing critical public health challenges.