Parliament has pledged to contribute Shs1 billion towards the completion of the radiotherapy center at St. Francis Nsambya Hospital in Kampala.
The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, made this commitment during the launch of the 2024 edition of the Annual Rotary Cancer Run at the hospital on April 24, 2024.
The 2024 run, scheduled for August 25, 2024, at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, will mark the 13th year of the Rotary Cancer Run with the theme: “Spread Magic in Every Step.”
Parliament has been a key sponsor of the event, which aims to raise funds to support cancer initiatives under the Rotary Cancer Programme.
By improving cancer treatment capabilities, the facility will reduce costs for patients and relieve pressure on public health facilities in tackling the second leading cause of death globally.
The Speaker, after touring the cancer ward and bunker site, praised the cancer run initiative for its humanitarian service and pledged support for the project’s timely completion.
“As a people-centered Parliament, we will generously support the completion of the bunkers and aim to finish it as soon as possible. Once completed, it will benefit Nsambya Hospital, cancer patients, runners, and Rotarians,” Among said.
Among called on all compassionate citizens to join forces and support the project to make a significant impact on the lives of cancer patients.
“This project will complement cancer treatment and reduce congestion in other hospitals… the donations received must be used for the betterment of humanity,” she emphasized.
Among also lauded former Speaker Rebecca Kadaga for leading Parliament’s efforts in supporting cancer runs during the 10th Parliament.
Parliament’s contribution of Shs1 billion nearly matches the Shs1.1 billion raised in the 2023 cancer run, which saw 30,000 participants.
This year, Rotary Uganda aims to raise Shs4 billion and double the number of participants to 60,000.
“This will result in doubling last year’s collections to Shs4 billion, a significant contribution towards the required Shs13.8 billion for the radiotherapy center completion,” said Michael Niyitegeka, the Chairperson of the Cancer Run 2024.
Dr. Andrew Ssekitooleko, the CEO of Nsambya Hospital, encouraged Ugandans to embrace running and highlighted how the project showcases the positive impact of human spirit.
“The hospital has not contributed any funds to this initiative. It has been individuals, and we particularly acknowledge Parliament’s contribution,” he noted.
The Rotary Cancer Run began in 2012. Proceeds from the initial runs built the Rotary Centenary Bank Cancer Centre at Nsambya, while the 2015 run raised Shs200 million to build the Rotary Blood Bank at Mengo Hospital.
Funds from the runs between 2016 and 2021 were directed towards phase one of the bunker construction.
According to the World Health Organization, cancer is a diverse group of diseases that start in various organs or tissues when abnormal cells multiply uncontrollably and spread beyond their usual boundaries.
Press Release distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.