This morning (12th March), I&M Bank Uganda announced a substantial financial boost of Shs200m for the highly anticipated Kabaka Birthday Run 2024, scheduled for Sunday, April 7 in Kampala.
The sponsorship commitment was officially established earlier today as I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Buganda Kingdom’s business headquarters in Bulange, Mengo.
The signing ceremony was attended by key figures, including Deputy Katikkiro and Minister of Finance of Buganda, Owek. Robert Waggwa Nsibiwra, and Owek. Remmy Kisakye, the CEO of Majestic Brands, the Buganda Kingdom’s business arm and the official organizers of the run.
“It’s been four years since we started this conversation, and year after year, I&M
bank Uganda has exhibited commitment towards partnering with Buganda Kingdom on several causes. I am glad you’ve taken a bold step by committing over Shs 200m, towards His Highness Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi’s Birthday Run. Your unwavering support will be very instrumental in the fight against HIV AIDS. thank you,” Owek. Nsibirwa said.
Nsibirwa highlighted that by working with Buganda Kingdom, organizations like I&M Bank help extend services and improve the welfare of the larger population within Buganda as a region.
“Buganda Kingdom is over a thousand years old, and when we talk about Buganda, we are talking about the whole region, not just the tribe. So, all the services and projects that we undertake benefit everyone within the kingdom.
So, when you work with us, you are not only supporting the Kabaka or the Baganda, but the entire region, and by extension, the entire country; so, I want to thank you for that foresight,” Owek. Nsibirwa added.
This is the second consecutive year that I&M Bank has pledged to support the run, that is organized annually by the Buganda Kingdom to commemorate His Highness Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi’s birthday.
Speaking during the signing of the MOU, I&M Bank CEO, Robin Bairstow reiterated the bank’s commitment to participate in events and activities that impact the communities where the bank operates.
Bairstow announced that I&M Bank has committed to be the official bank partner for the Kabaka Birthday Run for the next three years.
“As I&M Bank, we are honoured to stand alongside Buganda Kingdom on this noble cause. The Kabaka Birthday Run presents us a grand opportunity to make a tangible difference by giving back and leading the charge for change and transformation in the community, especially in the collective efforts to end the AIDS epidemic,” said Bairstow.
“This year, in August, we will be commemorating 50 years of operations in the region. I’m proud to say that it is initiatives like this one that make the celebrations more worthwhile. Our continued support for this event underscores our dedication to effecting positive change in the communities where we operate. Together with Buganda Kingdom and our community, we can take significant strides towards realizing an HIV-free society,” he added
The Kabaka Birthday Run is a key fixture on the Buganda Kingdom’s annual activity calendar, that is used as a vessel to raise funds and awareness towards the fight of non-communicable diseases, especially HIV/AIDS. Since its inception in 2013, the event has helped raise awareness and funds to address diseases like Fistula and Sickle Cells.
Annette Nakiyaga, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at I&M Bank, echoed Bairstow’s sentiments, emphasising the importance of collective action in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
“The battle against HIV/AIDS requires unity and commitment from all of us. Together, we can amplify our impact and make meaningful strides towards a healthier society. I urge everyone to join us in supporting the Kabaka Birthday Run, as every contribution counts,” said Ms. Nakiyaga.
In addition to its financial contribution, I&M Bank has offered select branches, including Kingdom Kampala, Kabalagala, Kawempe, and William Street, as official kit-selling points, for the convenience of customers and the public.
Kits for the Kabaka Birthday Run 2024 are going for Shs UGX 20,000.
