In a vibrant and energetic celebration marking International Women’s Day, the Rotary Club of Mbarara successfully organized its annual Safe Motherhood Run at CPP Rotary House, Kiyanja. The event, themed “Stronger Mothers. Healthier Generations,” focused on raising awareness and support for neonatal care, bringing together hundreds of participants in a powerful show of community solidarity.
The day kicked off with morning drills that energized participants and set a motivated tone for the event. Runners of all ages and fitness levels then took on three exciting distances the 5km, 10km and 21km filling the grounds and surrounding areas of CPP Rotary House with color, music, motivational banners and enthusiastic cheers.
The occasion was honoured by the presence of distinguished Chief Guests: District Governor of Rotary District 9214, Christine Kyeyune Kawooya, and Rotary International Director-Elect, Emmanuel Katongole. Their participation highlighted the importance of collective efforts in improving maternal and child health outcomes in the region.
A key highlight was the voluntary blood donation drive conducted alongside the run. Many generous participants donated blood, directly bolstering the blood bank and demonstrating Rotary’s commitment to immediate, life-saving service.
All proceeds, sponsorships and donations will be channeled towards equipping the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. As a dedicated “run for neonates,” the event aims to provide essential equipment and supplies to care for premature and critically ill newborns, ultimately benefiting thousands of families across southwestern Uganda.
“This run is more than a sporting activity it is a community standing firmly behind every mother and every newborn baby,” noted District Governor Christine Kyeyune Kawooya. Rotary International Director-Elect Emmanuel Katongole also praised the club’s focused initiative on neonatal care as a model of impactful Rotary service.
Our Local media partner Tayari West TV captured the inspiring atmosphere of unity and purpose as Rotarians, Rotaractors from partnering clubs such as Rotary clubs of Entebbe Base, Mararara Ranchers,Bushenyi,Kabwohe,Muyenga,Ibanda,Muyenga Tankhill,Mengo,Nakumunye and Rotaract Clubs of Mbarara City, Mbarara, MUBS-Mbarara, Oruchinga MUST and many others, healthcare workers and community members came together for this worthy cause.
We express sincere thanks to the Chief Guest, all sponsors, partners, volunteers, blood donors and every participant who contributed to making the Safe Motherhood Run a resounding success. Your generosity is already helping to strengthen neonatal care and give more babies a healthy start in life.
