Hundreds of participants joined a run on Saturday, organised as one of the activities to the commemoration of the 30th Empango (coronation anniversary) of the Omukama of Bunyoro, Solomon Iguru Gafabusa.
The anniversary ceremony is slated for Tuesday, June 11, at the Rukurato yard, located 300 metres from the Karuziika palace on Kwebiha road in Hoima city.
The proceeds from T-shirt sales and sponsorships have enabled the acquisition of two sterilizers and two delivery beds for Kibaale Health Center four.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Andrew Kirungi Byakutaga, the Kingdom Prime Minister, the Omukama expressed gratitude to the participants for their significant turnout at the marathon’s commencement at the Rukurato (Parliament) courtyard.
“Thank you for participating in this run, which contributes to the noble cause of saving lives,” he said, acknowledging the enthusiastic crowd gathered for the event.
The Omukama emphasised the kingdom’s commitment to enhancing healthcare services for the welfare of its people.
The marathon, dubbed the “Empango Run,” is in its sixth consecutive year and is organised by Spice FM, a local radio station.
Leonard Kusemererwa, Chairman of the Empango Marathon organising committee and Executive Director of Spice Media Services, explained that the decision to procure the mentioned medical equipment followed a recent needs assessment.
Dr. James Asiimwe, the Kibaale district health officer, expressed gratitude for the medical equipment, anticipating a reduction in referrals, particularly in maternal cases.
“We have faced challenges due to a shortage of sterilizers, sometimes resorting to using charcoal to heat medical equipment, especially during days with a high influx of deliveries, sometimes exceeding 16 in a day,” he explained.
The sterilizer, Kusemererwa highlighted, is essential for boiling medical tools, ensuring they are free from infectious pathogens before use.