On Sunday, the Rotary Club of Jinja, in partnership with several Rotary and Rotaract clubs, hosted its 13th annual Cancer Run, bringing together over 200 participants to raise funds and awareness in the fight against cancer. This year’s event was marked by a significant turnout of politicians, Rotarians, well-wishers, and community members, all running with a shared goal: to support cancer treatment and prevention efforts in Uganda.
The Cancer Run began as a national initiative by Rotary clubs across Uganda, uniting their resources and efforts to tackle cancer, a leading cause of death in the country. Over the past 13 years, the event has grown in scope and impact, becoming a beacon of hope for many who are affected by the disease. This year, the funds raised will be dedicated to building bunkers at Nsambya Hospital, which are essential for housing radiotherapy machines crucial for cancer treatment.
The spirit of collaboration was evident, with participation from multiple Rotary clubs, including the Rotary Club of Source of the Nile, Jinja Metro, Njeru, Jinja City, and the Rotaract Club of Jinja. This partnership underscores the unity and shared commitment within the Rotary community to fight cancer and enhance healthcare services.
In addition to the run, a pre-event cancer screening was held on August 24th, attracting 64 patients. This initiative, organized in partnership with local clinics and pharmacies in Jinja, offered free screenings to the community, reinforcing the importance of early detection and preventive care. The event highlighted the Rotary Club’s commitment to proactive healthcare and community engagement.
Beyond fundraising, the Cancer Run serves as a platform to raise awareness about Rotary’s ongoing efforts in the fight against cancer. It also seeks to engage more partners and stakeholders, amplifying the impact of collective action. The presence of various community leaders and influencers at the event underscored its significance and the growing support for the cause.
Building on the success of the Cancer Run, the Rotary Club of Jinja is already preparing for its next major event, the Family Health Day, scheduled for October 26th at Kitayungwa Health Centre III in Kamuli. This event will provide free medical services to the local community, further demonstrating Rotary’s commitment to enhancing healthcare access and improving community health outcomes.
The annual Cancer Run by the Rotary Club of Jinja is more than a fundraising event—it is a rallying cry for community action and a testament to the power of unity in the fight against cancer. Through continued collaboration and support, the Rotary Club of Jinja remains a strong pillar in serving humanity and promoting health and well-being across Uganda.
