By Nathan Eyagu 

SOROTI - In 2024, the Teso region’s AIDS Support Organization (TASO) continues to find itself at a critical crossroads, faced with a significant reduction in international funding. The organization, a steadfast supporter of Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVCs) and individuals affected by HIV/AIDS, is now looking to the community to help bridge the gap.

On November 23rd, TASO will host the "Soroti Run" at Soroti Mayor’s Garden, aiming to mobilize local support to sustain its vital programs.

According to Father Daniel Moses Oret, Chair of TASO’s Community Advisory Committee (CAC), emphasized the importance of unity in this year's efforts. “We must come together with transparency and a shared purpose,” he stated, calling upon the community to rally behind this cause.

The Soroti Run will feature a “Three-in-One” event structure, incorporating a 2-km walk, a 5-km run, and a 10-km race alongside fitness dance sessions, all geared towards raising essential funds.

Over the years, TASO has actively supported education and empowerment initiatives for vulnerable children in Teso. In 2022, TASO raised UGX 18 million, allowing it to support 11 children’s schooling and deliver vocational training to others. In 2023, UGX 9 million was collected, which funded graduate studies for two OVCs at Kyambogo and Busitema Universities.

In light of diminishing international donations, Rev. Father Oret underscored the need for local backing: “Our strength now lies within the community. We must be transparent and work together to ensure this mission continues.” The funds raised from the Soroti Run will be directly allocated towards expanding TASO's reach to the increasing number of OVCs in the region.

TASO currently supports 6,209 clients on antiretroviral therapy (ART), spanning various age groups: 36 children under 10 years, 468 individuals aged 10–24, and 5,705 adults over 25. The clients are nearly two-thirds female (4,041) compared to 2,168 male clients. The organization also bears the responsibility of supporting 335 OVCs, a number that continues to grow as new needs arise.

Charles Odoi, TASO’s Center Programs Manager, highlighted the community’s role in sustaining these essential services: “All of us need to play a role; there is no reason to lose our loved ones when we have the power to support them.”

The Soroti Run 2024 symbolizes a powerful community-driven initiative aimed at sustaining TASO’s essential services, particularly as the demand for support continues to rise. By participating, community members will not only contribute to a cause but also demonstrate solidarity with families and individuals facing hardship.

The Soroti Run 2024 serves as an inspiring reminder of the strength of collective action, as Teso’s community steps up to ensure vulnerable children and families have the support they need for a hopeful future.