Kololo Ceremonial Grounds came alive today with the chants of encouragement and a colorful wave of runners clad in bright kits. This was no ordinary Sunday morning; it was the 14th edition of the Rotary Cancer Run, where thousands gathered under the theme “So Many Cancers, One Race.”
Among the runners was the Bash Global Initiative actively participating to amplify cancer awareness, advocate for early detection, and champion healthier lifestyles for Ugandans. As a non-profit dedicated to healthcare and well-being, Bash Global Initiative’s involvement underscores its mission to connect global resources with local needs, fostering a cancer-free future for communities across Uganda.
The annual event, organized by the Rotary Cancer Program Uganda since 2012, drew over 80,000 participants nationwide and in more than 100 cities worldwide, aiming to raise UGX 4 billion (approximately $1 million) to complete the final phase of the Nsambya Hospital Cancer Centre. This includes constructing radiation bunkers to house linear accelerator machines for advanced radiotherapy, addressing a critical gap in Uganda’s oncology infrastructure. With only one major public cancer institute in the country serving a population of nearly 50 million, such initiatives are vital. Proceeds will support the Rotary Cancer Centre at Nsambya Hospital, which already features a 36-bed ward operational since 2017 and has helped over 3,000 patients through chemotherapy and psychological support.
Uganda faces a staggering cancer burden: an estimated 35,000 new cases and over 22,000 deaths annually, with many attributed to late diagnosis. Cervical cancer remains the leading cause among women (age-standardized incidence rate of 53.8 per 100,000), followed by breast cancer, while prostate cancer tops the list for men. Non-communicable diseases like cancer now account for 37.9% of premature deaths in Uganda, exacerbated by limited access to screening and treatment. Events like today’s run not only fundraise but also drive awareness, emphasizing that early detection can reduce mortality by up to 30-50%, according to World Health Organization estimates.
Bash Global Initiative’s team was present, donning kits and holding placards with empowering messages like “Detect Early,” “We Care,” “Cancer Stops Here,” and “A Healthy Community.”
They engaged in aerobics, stretching sessions, and the run itself, while distributing placards and interacting with fellow participants to spread the word on lifestyle changes—such as balanced diets, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco—to prevent cancer. “This is more than a run; it’s a movement for health equity,” said Bashir Mukwaya, Acting Executive Director of Bash Global Initiative. In a heartfelt interview, Mukwaya emphasized the organization’s commitment: “We’re here at Kololo Independence Grounds to take part in the 2025 Rotary Cancer Run, creating awareness for communities affected by cancer. With Uganda’s population nearing 50 million, many lives are lost due to late detection. Bash Global Initiative runs health and well-being programs to foster education, partner with ministries for better centers and equipment, and ensure early detection saves lives. Today is a step toward a future where well-being is a reality for all—no one left behind.”
Speaking on behalf of Bash Global Initiative’s Head of Health & Well-being Program, Chief Operations Officer Mariam Mujadid Namulema highlighted the initiative’s passion for Ugandan health. “BASH Global Initiative is so passionate about the health and well-being of Ugandans. That’s why we decided to take part in the Rotary Cancer Run this year. As the theme goes, ‘So Many Cancers, One Race’—cancers are many, but one race can help alleviate them. Through this, we’re creating awareness of cancer, treatment, and collecting funds to build bunkers for cancer treatment in Uganda.” Namulema stressed the event’s impressiveness: “It’s so impressive to see so many Ugandans participating. We’re glad people are coming out to increase awareness about diagnosis and treatment centers. Currently, we have only one cancer institute in Uganda, and with our large population, we need more. Today, we’re creating awareness, and awareness leads to action. Action leads to early detection, and early detection saves lives. I encourage the public to reduce stigma and participate in such activities.”
The run’s energy was infectious, with participants from all walks of life uniting for a cause that transcends borders. Raymond Andrew Kalema, a member of the Rotary Club of Kitante and a regular participant, shared his motivation: “I’m here to participate in the Cancer Awareness Campaign to support the construction of a cancer ward at Nsambya Hospital. It’s a daunting task needing a lot of money, but numbers don’t lie—if we get 1,000 today, 2,000 tomorrow, or even 2 million, we can achieve targets and expand to districts. As a Rotarian, I believe in impacting communities. Cancer is scary; it’s time to act by creating awareness for early testing. Health is wealth—if you’re healthy, you can achieve anything. It’s important to test early to avoid high costs and pain.”
Rotary leadership echoed the collaborative spirit. Stella Arwako, President of the Rotary Club of Kyadondo, praised Bash Global Initiative’s role: “This year, we’re running against many cancers—’So Many Cancers, One Race.’ Organizations like BASH Global add value by partnering with Rotary International for corporate social responsibility, serving communities worldwide. Their participation is important for Uganda’s cancer fight as we build a cancer ward at Nsambya with bunkers for radiotherapy. We’re collecting about 8 billion shillings by 2027 for affordable treatment for all. Cancer doesn’t discriminate—it hits young, old, poor, and rich. Ugandans must unite: create awareness, screen, train technicians, and build infrastructure. I’m happy to be part of the Cancer Run because every penny counts. We’re truly thankful for BGI’s participation in the 14th edition—every brick counts. If they continue this partnership, we’ll go far in fighting cancer.”
Bash Global Initiative’s participation aligns with its broader objectives: showcasing commitment to early detection, capturing the event’s unity and hope, and positioning the organization as a key healthcare advocate. Mukwaya added, “BGI wants to reinforce our commitment through education, early detection, and collective efforts for lasting health improvements across Uganda. We’re partnering to fight this disease affecting many lives—awareness is key to reducing death rates.”
As the runners crossed the finish line, the message was clear: together, Uganda can turn the tide against cancer. Bash Global Initiative’s involvement not only contributed financially through kit purchases but also emotionally, reminding all that “We Run for a Healthier Tomorrow.”
For more on Bash Global Initiative’s initiatives, visit www.bashglobalinitiative.org.
To support the Rotary Cancer Run or learn about screening, contact the Uganda Cancer Institute or local Rotary clubs.