A pair of surgical gloves, a cultural celebration, and a multi-trillion national plan converged at Bulange on 31 March 2026, highlighting how industry, tradition, and public policy are increasingly aligned in Uganda’s development agenda.
At the seat of the Buganda government, East African Medical Vitals (EAMV) managing director Brian Kavuya handed a Shs 10m cheque to Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, confirming the company’s silver sponsorship of the 13th Kabaka’s Birthday Run.
EAMV is the first manufacturer of powder-free latex surgical gloves on the African continent. Its factory in Namanve Industrial Park produces about 95 million gloves annually, supplying Uganda and regional markets.
The company’s involvement in the annual run reflects a wider policy direction that links local manufacturing, cultural institutions, and health outcomes.
Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV), approved in January 2025, sets out to increase household incomes and create jobs through industrialisation.
The five-year plan is part of a broader strategy to expand the economy tenfold by 2040. It prioritises value addition, human capital development, private sector-led growth, infrastructure, and governance.
EAMV’s operations align with these targets. The company converts raw latex into finished medical products locally, reducing reliance on imports.
Before its establishment, Uganda imported all surgical gloves, often waiting up to three months for deliveries. EAMV now supplies within days and meets about 70% of domestic demand.
It also holds a long-term government supply agreement and has reduced foreign exchange outflows significantly.
The Kabaka’s Birthday Run, which attracts more than 100,000 participants annually, has become a platform for public health campaigns.
This year’s theme focuses on men’s role in preventing HIV infections and protecting adolescent girls and young women.
According to UNAIDS, Uganda’s HIV prevalence among adults aged 15 to 49 stood at 4.9% in 2024, down from 7.3% in 2010. New infections have declined sharply, although thousands of children are still born with HIV each year.
Officials say sustained awareness and behavioural change remain critical. Mayiga urged men to take responsibility in the fight against HIV, describing awareness as a key tool in reducing infections.
The 13th Kabaka’s Birthday Run will take place on 12 April 2026. Participants will compete in 21km, 10km, and 5km races.
