What happened at the Kabaka Birthday Run 2025?
Despite heavy and persistent rainfall on 6/4/25 across Kampala, thousands of people turned out in massive numbers today for the Kabaka Birthday Run 2025, celebrating the 70th birthday of His Majesty Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II. The palace grounds at Mengo became a vibrant sea of umbrellas, Buganda flags, and joyful cheers, proving once again that no storm could dampen the spirit of the Kingdom.
By early morning, long before the official flag-off, enthusiastic participants had already started to gather at Lubiri Palace—the ceremonial heart of Buganda. From children as young as six to elders well into their golden years, the diversity of the crowd mirrored the unity and devotion the people have for their monarch.
How was the Kabaka welcomed during the Kabaka Birthday Run 2025?
As His Majesty arrived at his palace, he was met with thunderous applause and jubilation. Dressed in royal attire and beaming with pride, the Kabaka formally flagged off the day’s run—which featured 5km, 10km, and 21km distances winding through Kampala. The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, also received a hero’s welcome as runners chanted praises upon his arrival at Lubiri.
Among the notable figures who participated in the run were Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and Hon. Nakimuli Hellen, Woman MP for Kalangala District. Their presence added further prestige to the occasion, symbolizing unity across both political and cultural lines.
How participants of the Kabaka Birthday Run 2025 were Dancing in the Rain
With rain continuing well past 9:40 a.m. and no sign of clearing, participants showed remarkable resilience. Many clutched umbrellas and draped themselves in waterproof gear, while others simply embraced the downpour, dancing to music that blared across the palace grounds. At several points, runners paused—not out of fatigue, but to break into spontaneous dances, raising morale and sharing laughter that cut through the cold morning air.
“The rain is a blessing,” said one runner, soaked but smiling. “We are not just here to run. We’re here to honor our Kabaka and stand together.”
What other Corporate and Community Entities showed up for Kabaka Birthday Run 2025?
The event also featured strong representation from leading companies and public institutions. Among them was Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), which has recently assumed responsibility for power distribution in Uganda. UEDCL and others used the platform to engage directly with the public, answer questions, and share information about their services.
The palace grounds became more than just a running arena—they transformed into an open forum where people could interact with service providers in a relaxed, celebratory setting.
Where else was the Kabaka Birthday Run 2025 celebrated?
Celebrations weren’t confined to Kampala. In Jinja City, participants gathered as early as 8:00 a.m., warming up in the morning breeze before taking off for their own leg of the Kabaka Birthday Run. Similar events were held across Buganda, including Mutuba V – Bunjako and Buweekula, each seeing enthusiastic turnout from both youth and adults. In Bunjako, the event was flagged off by Zziwa Vincent, and in Buweekula, Hon. Harriet Nampala led a 5km community run at Kasaana grounds.
There was also visible international participation, with runners from neighboring countries and beyond waving their flags alongside the Buganda banner—a testament to the far-reaching significance of the event.
What was the purpose of the Kabaka Birthday Run 2025 this year?
The Kabaka Birthday Run 2025 is not just about celebration—it carries a message. This year’s theme focuses on the role of men in protecting the girl child from HIV/AIDS, a powerful call for collective responsibility and awareness. The run continues to be part of broader health campaigns supported by the Kabaka Foundation and its partners, aimed at improving community well-being.
How old is the Kabaka of Buganda?
Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II is currently 69 years old and will celebrate his 70th birthday on April 13, 2025. The ongoing Kabaka Birthday Run, which took place on April 6, 2025, is part of the celebrations marking this milestone. Despite the rain, thousands gathered in Kampala for the event, with participants of all ages, including children as young as six, taking part in the run. The Kabaka’s 70th birthday will be marked with various activities throughout the month, and the run serves as a highlight of these celebrations, promoting health and community unity.
A Celebration That Defied the Weather
By mid-morning, the rain still hadn’t let up. Yet the atmosphere remained electric, driven by unity, tradition, and love for the Kabaka. School children, local leaders, families, visitors, and royals alike filled the city with cheer and resolve.
As one participant summed it up, standing proudly beneath a soaked Buganda flag:
“This is more than a birthday run. It’s a symbol of who we are—as people, as a kingdom, and as a nation. Rain or shine, we show up for our Kabaka.”
