The 15th edition of the Rotary Cancer Run 2026 has officially been launched in Uganda, with organisers setting a fundraising target of UGX 5 billion to support completion of the Cancer Treatment Centre at St. Francis Hospital Nsambya. The national run will take place on August 30, 2026, at Kololo Independence Grounds under the theme “Gwanga Mujje.”

Speaking during the launch, the Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, Anita Annet Among, urged Ugandans, corporate institutions and well-wishers to participate in large numbers, emphasizing that the growing cancer burden in the country requires a united effort. She said the annual run continues to offer hope to thousands of families affected by cancer and plays a critical role in strengthening treatment capacity within Uganda.

Parliament pledged UGX 3 billion toward the 2026 Rotary Cancer Run, reaffirming its position as one of the leading contributors to the initiative. Since 2012, Parliament has contributed a cumulative UGX 7.2 billion to the cancer fundraising campaign. The Speaker said the institution remains committed to supporting completion of the cancer facility bunker and expanding access to affordable treatment services.

Organisers aim to mobilize at least 100,000 runners this year as part of a nationwide awareness and fundraising drive. Proceeds from the event will help equip the Nsambya Cancer Treatment Centre with modern Linear Accelerator technology, essential for advanced cancer care. More than 70 medical camps are also planned across the country to promote early screening and public sensitization.

The launch attracted members of the Rotary fraternity, health sector partners and government officials who commended the sustained citizen-led effort behind the annual run. Appreciation was also extended to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his continued support toward cancer initiatives in Uganda.

With cancer cases on the rise, the Rotary Cancer Run 2026 is expected to be one of the largest health-focused fundraising events in Uganda, reinforcing national efforts to improve access to specialized cancer treatment and reduce pressure on referral hospitals.