By Jumah Kakomo
Kids of Africa has called on the government to prioritize the empowerment and protection of orphans and other vulnerable children across the country by providing essential services such as education, healthcare, and child protection.
The appeal was made by Ahmed Mwesige Sulyman, Head of the Social Department at Kids of Africa, ahead of the 12th edition of their annual half marathon scheduled for September 7, 2025, in Wakiso District. This year’s event will run under the sub-theme “Menstrual Health for the Girl Child” and the main theme “Run for Sanitation for the Girl Child.”
Ahmed emphasized that millions of children across Africa continue to face significant challenges, including violence, harmful cultural practices, exclusion from education and healthcare, and lack of protection. He called on the government to integrate child-sensitive and gender-responsive budgeting into national planning frameworks.
“More investment is needed in services for vulnerable children, including education, healthcare, and protection from abuse and exploitation,” Ahmed said. “Policies should prioritize the needs of all children, including those with disabilities, and ensure equal access to education, health services, and opportunities.”
Each year, Kids of Africa organizes a fundraising run to support community initiatives focusing on health and education. The upcoming 12th edition will feature 21km, 10km, and 5km race categories, with over 1,000 participants expected to take part.
Nicolas Mpairwe, IT Support Staff at Kids of Africa, noted that the race will start from Kids Pioneer Primary School in Buguri-Kisubi (Katabi Town Council) and follow routes determined by race category and age group.
“Medals and prizes will be awarded to the top three male and female runners in each category,” Nicolas said. “This year, our goal is to reach 1,000 girls and boys in public schools.”
He added that last year’s marathon enabled the organization to reach and train approximately 600 pupils — both boys and girls — from 12 primary schools across Wakiso, Luwero, Kiryandongo, and Alebtong districts. The initiative also led to the establishment of a modern sewing workshop for the production of reusable menstrual pads at the Kids of Africa village.
Ronald Kalema, Mayor of Katabi Town Council in Wakiso District, commended Kids of Africa for their continued commitment to improving the lives of young girls, particularly in areas of education, health, and protection.
“We applaud their remarkable efforts and pledge to work hand in hand with them to support vulnerable children in our communities,” Kalema said.
