Airtel Uganda in partnership with the Buganda Kingdom has Thursday announced that Shs494 million was collected during the Airtel Kabaka’s Run in August.
The proceeds will be used to promote Sickle Cell Disease awareness as well as procure test kits.
“Shs200 million will go into buying test kits for screening Sickle Cell Disease awareness while Shs249 million will be channeled towards sensitization and awareness campaigns,” the Deputy Katikkiro of Buganda, Owek Robert Waggwa said during the announcement made at the Buganda Kingdom offices in Bulange Mengo.
“21% of the people in Buganda have sickle cells, one is either a carrier or has the disease. With these proceeds, we will be sensitizing people about the disease and also testing them,” he added
Airtel Uganda Head of Brands and Communication Remmie Kisakye, thanked Ugandans for turning up in big numbers for the run that happened on April 7, 2019 and reconfirmed Airtel’s commitment towards the fight against Sickle Cells Disease.
“In line with our three-year theme, we intend to continue driving awareness about the Sickle Cell Disease. Last year, we donated over 140,000 sickle cell testing kits to Uganda National Health Laboratory Services, procured from the proceeds of this prestigious run. We are on a positive trajectory and together we can create a healthy Uganda,” she said.
The Kabaka run – an annual event celebrated to mark the King’s birthday – is part of a partnership that the telecommunications giant has with the Buganda Kingdom to sponsor four of their most important activities; the Kabaka’s birthday Run, Kabaka’s birthday celebration, the Kabaka’s coronation as well as Eid El Fitri. Airtel Uganda also sponsors the Masaza Cup – the Buganda kingdom football tournament.
