Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar Pledges More Support as Thousands Attend 2026 Kabaka Birthday Run

Thousands of Ugandans turned up on Sunday morning at Lubiri, Mengo, for this year’s Kabaka Birthday Run.

For the first time, the event attracted over 130,000 participants, making it the highest turnout since its inception in 2014.

Among the notable guests was Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar, who travelled from abroad to grace the occasion. In his remarks, Taldar pledged continued support for the Kingdom’s activities.

“I am very happy to be here. Thank you for supporting Airtel, and on behalf of Airtel, we wish the Kabaka many more years of good health and prosperity. We will continue supporting all Kingdom events,” he said after receiving a special birthday run kit from Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi.

The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, called upon men to take a leading role in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

“Thank you all for attending this special event. I urge all men to be at the forefront in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Protect yourselves, go for regular medical check-ups, and those who are sick should adhere to doctors’ guidelines,” he said.

He also expressed appreciation to Airtel and other sponsors for their continued support towards the success of the event.

This year’s run was held under the theme “Men for Good Health to Save the Girl Child and the Fight to End HIV/AIDS by 2030,” emphasizing the role of men in promoting health and ending HIV/AIDS.