LIRA, Uganda – A number of development partners and corporate companies have pledged their support for the Uhuru Sickle Cell Run in Lango Sub-Region, which is scheduled for October 5, 2024. The event aims to raise awareness and funds for sickle cell disease treatment.
During a press briefing at St. Lira Hotel, Lira ARCC Boney Okello Ferdinand Alele announced that Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, the Minister of Health and Lira City Woman MP, has provided technical support for the event.
Key partners include Stanbic Bank, Coca-Cola, Lira Regional Referral Hospital, Radio Unity FM, Q FM, and Voice of Lango FM. The Assistant Resident City Commissioner, Boney Alele, stated that First Lady Janet Kata Museveni, the Minister of Education and Sports, has contributed Shs 10 million and will be the guest of honor. Stanbic Bank Lira branch has also donated Shs 10 million, while KCB has donated Shs 5 million. Additionally, 30 kits have been procured by Hon. Hamson Denis Obua, the Government Chief Whip.
The Uhuru Sickle Cell Run will feature a 4km walk, a 10km run, and an 18km run. The starting point is Lira Town College, and the route will pass through Pacific Hotel, the NRM Office, Lira Hotel, and Obote Avenue before returning to the starting point.
SP Jimmy Patrick Okema, the Police PRO for North Kyoga Region, assured participants of adequate security arrangements. He stated that police deployment will be in place to ensure the safety of the event.
Kibwota Patrick, representing Stanbic Bank, emphasized the bank’s commitment to supporting the community. Stanbic Bank has donated Shs 10 million and encouraged other corporate institutions to contribute to the sickle cell run.
Kinkuhaire Lukumu, the coordinator of Lira City Elites Club, expressed optimism about the success of the event. She highlighted the importance of sports in raising awareness about sickle cell disease and thanked the Ministry of Health for its continued support. Lukumu also acknowledged the contribution of the Kiswala Group of Companies.
Sickle cell disease affects six out of 100 people in the region. Lukumu emphasized the need for medical attention and testing to address the disease and reduce stigma associated with it.
Daniel Odur Roy, the executive director of the Sickle Cell Foundation, revealed that Alebtong District has the highest prevalence of sickle cell disease, with over 23.8 percent of the population affected. He urged for increased awareness and efforts to combat the disease.
