THE EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES COMMISSION (EOC) PARTAKES IN THE CAMPAIGN AGAINST THE SICKLE CELL ANAEMIA

Mr. Robert Kabushenga – Executive Director of Vision Group keeping the Commission’s contribution safely away after receiving it from Mrs. Sylvia Muwebwa Ntambi -  Chairperson to the Commission

As part of its mandate to eliminate discrimination and marginalization in the country, the Equal Opportunities Commission participated in the Kabaka’s run that was organized to raise funds towards the Sickle cell anaemia. The run took place on 9th April 2017 starting at the Lubiri grounds. The intent of the Commission’s participation in the run was to render support to the sickle cell victims who are largely discriminated against in the country.

Prior to the Run, the Equal Opportunities Commission hosted Mr. Robert Kabushenga – Executive Director of the New Vision Publications for a meeting at its head office in Bugolobi. On behalf of the Commission, the meeting was attended by the Chairperson – Mrs. Sylvia Muwebwa Ntambi, the Vice Chairperson - Mr. Dennis Nduhura, Member Patrobas Sirabo Wafula, Member Joel Cox Ojuko and technical staff.

Mr. Robert Kabushenga addressing Commission Members and staff during the visit

In his remarks, Mr. Kabushenga expressed gratitude towards the Commission’s financial support intimating that the Sickle cell anaemia is one of the ailments killing citizens across the country. He went on and informed the gathering that there are many sickle cell patients dying in the country due to lack of finances stretching that any financial aid made towards their well-being can make a positive impact in their lives.

Mr. Kabushenga expatiated that sports is one of the avenues which can be used to fight discrimination and create awareness about the fight against diseases.  He further informed the gathering that the meeting was a breaking point for a long and mutual relationship between the two institutions. In conclusion to his remarks, Mr. Kabushenga handed the Commission 50 sports kits to be used by Commission Members and staff on the D-day.

Mr. Robert Kabushenga and Mrs. Sylvia Muwebwa Ntambi holding out the sports attire to be used during the Kabaka’s run

Mrs. Ntambi informed Mr. Kabushenga that the Commission is mandated to eliminate discrimination and marginalization in the country on grounds of age, sex, race, colour, ethnic origin, creed, political affiliation, tribe, birth, health status, disability, religion, social or economic standing. She went on and explained that among the group of persons who are excluded in society are sickle cell patients because of their health status. Mrs. Ntambi stretched that sickle cell patients are marginalized under the assumption that their ill health can’t allow them to be involved in any activity, including education, employment and many others. Against this, the Commission joined in the campaign by making a financial contribution to reach out to this group of persons.

Mrs. Sylvia Muwebwa Ntambi – Chairperson (standing) addressing the meeting during the visit at the Commission head office.

On the same occasion, the Chairperson informed Commission staff that they will be participating in a weekly health run every Friday afternoon. This, she said, will enable them maintain healthy bodies and minds and thus be more productive.

“Let me also use this opportunity to inform my staff that effective this week, they will be participating in a weekly health run every Friday. The purpose of the health run is to keep you healthy and fit” said Mrs. Ntambi.”

Representatives from Vision Group, Commission Members and staff singing the national anthem at the beginning of the occasion.

The Kabaka’s run is an annual event organized by the Buganda Kingdom in celebration of the Kabaka’s birthday. The event is held in collaboration with Vision Group and other stakeholders and the proceeds are used to improve people’s livelihoods.

Some of the runners at Lubiri palace after returning from the run.