On Saturday, September 20, 2025, the streets of Mbarara came alive with a wave of colour, energy, and compassion as hundreds gathered for the annual Cancer Colour Run. Organized by Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH), the Uganda Paediatric Association (UPA), and the Global Health Collaborative (GHC), this year’s run carried one powerful message: Every step brings hope to a child fighting cancer.
With bright splashes of colour in the air and determination on every face, students, staff, alumni, and the greater Mbarara community ran the 5 km course in solidarity with children battling cancer. The event was flagged off by Prof. Joseph Ngonzi, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at MUST, whose words reminded everyone that the run is more than a race; it’s a lifeline.
The funds raised will directly support the Paediatric Cancer Unit (PCU) at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital; a beacon of hope built through community-led fundraising efforts championed by James Mooney. Today, the PCU diagnoses and treats more than 150 new childhood cancer cases every year. Thanks to the generosity of the runners and donors, the 2025 Cancer Colour Run will provide:
- Life-saving cancer medicines for children in treatment
- Nutritious meals to help young patients stay strong during therapy
- Support for dedicated healthcare staff
- Upgrades and maintenance to keep the unit a safe, healing space
Every step, every splash of colour, and every contribution made during the run is a promise to these children and their families that they are not alone in this fight. Together, we are painting a brighter future; one run, one child, one victory at a time.
Cheers erupted as Dr. Elias Kumbakumba, Head of Paediatrics at MRRH, congratulated the winners with medals, joined by Dr. Elizabeth Najjingo, Ms. Mary Namukisa and Ms. Sheila Niinye Twinamatsiko. In his heartfelt remarks, Dr. Kumbakumba reminded the crowd: “Cancer is real, but treatable if diagnosed early.” He urged the community to rally behind children battling cancer, providing not just medical treatment but also the basic nutrition many families cannot afford during therapy.
The most moving moment came when Myers Nowembabazi, a young cancer survivor, shared his journey. Diagnosed with leukaemia as a schoolboy, Myers described battling swelling, losing friends, and facing mental health struggles. Today, he stands strong, a living symbol of hope, resilience, and survival.
We are deeply grateful to all the stakeholders and partners who made the 2025 Cancer Colour Run possible. The run was more than just a fundraiser; it was a movement of compassion, action, and collective purpose. As we carry the energy and colour of this day forward, we do so with an unwavering belief that every child deserves a fighting chance and together we can help make that possible. All year-round contributions are welcome to sustain the Paediatric Cancer Unit.
Succeed we must
