Lira City witnessed a historic event today as the much-anticipated Uhuru Sickle Cell Run took place, drawing a large number of participants from various sectors.
The marathon, led by Ugandan long-distance runner and Olympic medalist Moses Kipsiro alongside Otuke MP Hon. Julius Achon Bua, saw passionate runners and supporters raising awareness for sickle cell disease.
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The Health Minister, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, graced the occasion as the guest of honor representing the first lady, Hon. Janet Museveni but also as a participant since it’s in her constituency and Ministry.
In her speech, Dr. Aceng applauded the organizers and emphasized the critical burden of sickle cell disease in Uganda. “The burden of sickle cell disease in Uganda is very high, with over 20,000 children born with sickle cell anemia every year. This puts a heavy burden not only on the caretakers but also on the economy,” she noted.
She further elaborated on the genetic nature of the disease and the significant challenges it poses to the development and quality of life for those affected. The Health Minister encouraged preventive measures, such as screening before marriage and at birth, to curb the prevalence of the disease.
Dr. Aceng also highlighted the government’s efforts in providing supportive care through centers of excellence like Lira Regional Referral Hospital. These centers are equipped with hydroxyurea, a medication that helps improve the quality of life for those living with sickle cell anemia.
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The proceeds from this year’s run, according to the committee, will go towards purchasing protein-based screening equipment to better diagnose sickle cell and related genetic disorders like thalassemia.
Hon. Julius Achon Bua, a key figure in the race, expressed his appreciation for the event. “This was my first 18-kilometer run in a year, and though tough, it was a great experience. I thank everyone who participated and look forward to seeing everyone next year,” he said with enthusiasm.
Bonny Ferdinand Okello Alele, the chairperson of the organizing committee, expressed delight at the success of the event. “We have raised 47 million UGX, surpassing our target. This will greatly support the fight against sickle cell, especially in northern Uganda where the disease is prevalent,” he said.
Chinkhire Zainabu Lukumu, Coordinator of the Lira City Elites Club, a partner in the event, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming turnout. “I believe we have done our best since the year began, raising awareness for sickle cell during our corporate events, and I know this will be an annual event,” she added.
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SP. Jimmy Patrirck Okema the PRO North Kyoga acknowledge that the marathon was peaceful “…since we had deployment on ground, the guidance was very good and awareness was well created because we went on radio and this program was widely aired out. So most people were aware when they saw us running, they realized this is the very team they were talking about. So people were respecting and chanting us actually.”
Organided by Catherine Phill Sickle Cell Initiative in collaboration with Lira City Elites Club, the Uhuru Sickle Cell Run was not just a run for health awareness but stressed the urgent need for an HB electrophoresis machine, a critical tool for accurately diagnosing sickle cell disease.
Funds raised from the run will be used to acquire this equipment for Lira Regional Referral Hospital and Alebtong Health Center IV.
