Uganda’s fights against cancer has received a major financial boost after Parliament deposited Shs3 billion towards the Uganda Rotary Cancer Programme.
The contribution is intended to support the completion and equipping of the Cancer Treatment Centre at St Francis Hospital, Nsambya, with particular attention to improving access to radiotherapy services.
The announcement was made by the Speaker of Parliament Jacob Marksons Oboth during the activation of the 15th edition of the Rotary Cancer Run on August 27.
The latest payment brings Parliament’s cumulative contribution to the Rotary cancer initiative over the past 15 years to Shs10.2 billion, highlighting the institution’s long-term involvement in efforts to improve cancer treatment in Uganda.
The Cancer Run, organized by Rotary, has become one of Uganda’s major annual fundraising and awareness campaigns,
This year’s run was scheduled for August 30, 2026, with activities centered on raising funds to support the development of cancer treatment infrastructure.
The Nsambya Cancer Treatment Centre is expected to play an important role in addressing Uganda’s shortage of specialized cancer treatment services.
One of the major challenges facing the country is limited access to radiotherapy equipment, which is essential for treating many cancer patients.
Health officials and legislators have repeatedly raised concerns about the country’s cancer-care capacity. During a parliamentary sitting on August 27, lawmakers called for increased investment in cancer screening and early detection.
Maruzi North MP Benard Otim specifically urged government to invest in mobile cancer screening services so that people outside major urban centres can access early diagnosis.
The issue is significant because early detection can greatly improve treatment options and outcomes for many forms of cancer.
However, access to screening remains a challenge for many Ugandans, particularly those living far from specialized health facilities.
The Rotary Cancer Programme has been supporting cancer-related initiatives in Uganda for more than a decade. Previous projects included the development of cancer treatment facilities and other health infrustructure.
The current campaign is focused on completing and equipping the Nsambya facility, including infrastructure required for advanced radiotherapy treatment.
Parliament’s contribution is expected to help accelerate the project and increase the country’s capacity to provide specialized cancer care.
Other organizations have also joined the campaign. Centenary Bank, for example, committed shs500 million towards the 2026 Rotary Cancer Run while encouraging greater awareness, early screening and timely treatment.
For many Ugandans affected by cancer, improved treatment infrastructure could mean shorter journeys, better access to specialized services and potentially reduced treatment costs.
The shs3 billion contribution from Parliament therefore represents more than financial commitment. It is part of a broader national effort to strengthen Uganda’s cancer response and improve access to modern treatment.
As the Rotary Cancer Run campaign continues, attention will now turn to how quickly funds and other contributions can be translated into completed infrastructure projects, modern equipment and accessible cancer services for Ugandans.
The ultimate goal is clear: to strengthen cancer treatment capacity and ensure that more Ugandans can access quality care when they need it most. Read more post from our website here.