Background

In 2010, inspired by the leadership of District Governor Stephen Mwanje, Rotarians in Uganda set out to turn an ambitious dream into a life-saving reality. The goal? To create a dedicated cancer ward that would provide specialist treatment, early detection, and compassionate care for patients battling cancer. The vision was clear: build a Centre of Excellence that could save lives, reduce suffering, and bring hope to thousands who had been facing cancer without access to the vital care they needed.

This vision gave birth to the Uganda Rotary Cancer Program (URCP). St. Francis’ Hospital Nsambya generously donated the land for the project, and on April 22, 2011, the groundbreaking ceremony took place, with Rotary International President Ray Klinginsmith officiating. Support flooded in from many partners, including Centenary Bank, Crown Beverages Limited, and our wonderful friends from AISPO in Italy. Their contributions provided the much-needed seed resources to get the project off the ground.

The support of Rotarians like Abel Katahoire, Patrick Batumbya, Ian Senkatuka, Wilson Sendikwanawa, and Dr. Martin Nsubuga has been invaluable in bringing this dream to life.
In August 2012, we launched the Rotary Cancer Run—our primary awareness and fundraising initiative. The event has grown year after year, attracting thousands of participants who continue to show up in solidarity and support of the cause. Their enthusiasm and commitment have been key to the success of our mission.

By July 7, 2015, after four successful Cancer Runs, we proudly handed over the completed cancer ward to Nsambya Hospital, which now oversees its day-to-day operations. But we didn’t stop there. Through two Global Grants (GG), we equipped the ward with advanced medical equipment and provided essential training for staff through Vocational Training Teams (VTT), with two inbound and one outbound team.

Despite these accomplishments, our journey is far from over. We’re still striving to create the fully specialized cancer treatment centre we envision. To make this a reality, we need to build two bunkers to house Linear Accelerators (LINAC) and other critical equipment.

As we continue to grow, we’re focused on developing a strategic plan that will guide the future of the Uganda Rotary Cancer Program, ensuring we reach our goal of providing world-class cancer care for every Ugandan in need.

Together, we can make this vision a reality. Let’s continue to fight cancer—one step, one run, and one life at a time.

Vision

To have a country free of the burden of cancer.

A nation where cancer no longer claims lives, where early detection is universal, where treatment is accessible and affordable to all, where research drives breakthrough therapies, where survivors thrive without fear of recurrence, and where families are spared the emotional and financial devastation of cancer diagnoses.

Mission

To have a comprehensive, sustainable & affordable solution for cancer.

A comprehensive cancer solution requires integrating early detection programs, accessible treatment centres, universal healthcare coverage, research funding for innovative therapies, patient support networks, preventive education, and affordable medication policies. We aim to balance medical effectiveness with long-term economic viability for healthcare systems and patients.

Every step counts, and together, we can make a lasting impact in the fight against cancer. Cancer doesn’t wait, and neither should we. Together, we can give hope, save lives, and build a future free from the fear of cancer.
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