A first year student at International University of East Africa (IUEA) has taken a bold stand to sensitize masses by organizing a ‘Cancer Awareness Event’ on 25th March 2017.
Barlow Alice Namutebi, Miss IUEA 2016/17, is to host the event under the theme ‘Together Against Cancer’.
The 22-year-old says that even when she contested in the University beauty pageant that saw over 30 participants last year in October, her theme was ‘Cancer’.
“I chose this theme because cancer is robbing us of so many lives. Children, neighbors, friends, family are all being affected by it. It’s starting to look normal but it’s abnormal,” She says. “Back in the years cancer wasn’t spreading as widely as it is right now. I believe we can go back to that or even better really kick cancer out.”
Alice is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management.
She reveals that her aunt, Rev Diana Nkesiga, who the country has seen lead the fight against Cancer though the ‘Nkesiga Cancer Foundation’ inspired her from day one to reach out to the masses with the same message.
“I was inspired by the ‘Nkesiga Cancer Foundation’. It was launched last year in October in memory of my late Uncle Rev. Solomon Nkesiga. Who succumbed to gall bladder cancer.”
Rev Diana, together with AAR insurance have committed to raising awareness, majorly for the purpose of gathering funds to offer cancer care and treatment to about 200 children at the Uganda Cancer Institute.
How easy has it been for the 22-year-old to organize this free event?
“It has not been easy,” Alice says. “It has been by the grace of God. I was able to get sponsors; Nkesiga Cancer Foundation, AmFuture, Soul Production Studio, International University of East Africa and family members.”
Alice says concerned stake holders and the government need to notice the prevalence of cancer in Uganda today.
Globally, the cancer burden is on the increase, especially in low and middle income countries. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), there will be 13.2 million cancer-related deaths every year, by 2030.
Alice urges that government needs to make the decision of raising awareness or lend a hand and be part of the foundations that are doing their best to fight against cancer.
With survivors ready to share their testimonies, the 4:30 pm event will include activities; music, dance and poetry.
aaron@ugchristiannews.com
