Sickle Cell Run 2025: Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda Launches run for awareness

The Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda (PSU), in partnership with Raising Hope International, has announced the Sickle Cell Run 2025, set to take place on Sunday,  September, 21,  2025 at Pharmacy House in Kyambogo.

The event is aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing action against sickle cell disease, one of Uganda’s most pressing genetic health challenges.

According to the Ministry of Health, an estimated 25,000 babies are born with sickle cell disease each year in Uganda, with over 80 percent dying before their fifth birthday due to limited awareness, delayed diagnosis, and poor access to comprehensive care.

Speaking to journalists at PSU headquarters in Kyambogo, Stephen Lutoti, Secretary of PSU, emphasized the urgency of this initiative.

“Sickle cell disease remains one of the most prevalent genetic conditions in Uganda,” he said.

“Despite this alarming statistic, public awareness, early diagnosis and access to comprehensive care remain limited. Together, we will shine a light on this silent epidemic and offer hope to thousands of affected families.”

The run is being organized under the theme “Amplifying Community Voices Against Sickle Cell Disease in Uganda”, and will feature 5km and 10km routes starting from Pharmacy House, passing through Ntinda, Kiwatule, Kigowa, and looping back to Kyambogo.

Isaac Okello, a partner from Raising Hope International, described the run as more than just a sporting event.

“When you talk about sickle cell in Uganda, it affects one or all of us, directly or indirectly. The Sickle Cell Run is not just about exercise; it is about amplifying voices across the country and supporting sickle cell-affected communities.”

Beyond running, PSU is using the platform to highlight the critical role pharmacists play in health care delivery.

Jonan Tusimire, President of PSU, noted that the initiative reflects the profession’s community-first approach.

“As pharmacists, our profession stands at the intersection of science and community service. By organizing this run, we are uniting communities, professionals, and families in the fight against sickle cell disease. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier Uganda.”

The run coincides with World Pharmacists Day on 25th September 2025, which will be marked with a Continuous Professional Development (CPD) conference for more than 2,000 pharmacists.

The CPD will focus on “Transforming Pharmacy Practice in Uganda,” equipping professionals with knowledge on new therapies, drug safety, and digital health systems.

Dr. Nuru Mugide, Vice President of PSU, stressed the importance of continuous learning in tackling emerging health challenges.

“The world keeps changing, and so do diseases and medicines. Our CPD event will remind pharmacists of their role in transforming practice—from mere compliance to real impact in patients’ lives.”

The organizers called on Ugandans—policy makers, schools, religious institutions, and corporate bodies—to join hands in the fight against sickle cell disease by participating in the run and supporting affected families.