Muhoozi rallies Ugandans to unity and service at 52nd birthday charity run

Muhoozi Rallies Ugandans to Unity and Service at 52nd Birthday Charity Run

By Editor

National

Chief of Defence Forces Muhoozi Kainerugaba has called on Ugandans to embrace unity and collective responsibility, describing his 52nd birthday run as a symbol of national solidarity and service to vulnerable communities.

Held under the theme “Run for Charity, Run for Hope,” the event attracted thousands of participants from across the country, including political leaders, religious figures, members of the security forces, and civilians. The initiative aimed to raise support for orphans and persons with disabilities.

In a message delivered by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, Gen Muhoozi expressed appreciation to Ugandans for backing the cause.

“I would like to sincerely thank all Ugandans, organizers, and participants for supporting this year’s cause. This initiative reflects the spirit of solidarity and national responsibility that we must continue to uphold as a nation,” the message read in part.

He noted that participation from all regions signaled the event’s evolution into a national exercise reflecting unity.

“The overwhelming participation from every region of Uganda shows that this has become a truly national exercise that reflects the unity we aspire to as Ugandans,” the message added.

Tayebwa said he was honored to represent the CDF, noting that the run has grown beyond a personal celebration into a broader platform for national engagement and service.

He conveyed Gen Muhoozi’s reflection that what began as a private milestone has transformed into a public movement, driven in part by encouragement from leaders such as Frank Tumwebaze, Daudi Kabanda, Lillian Aber, and Andrew Mwenda, as well as young people who advocated for opening the celebrations to the public.

“What began as a private celebration has now become a national movement that brings Ugandans together for a greater cause, thanks to encouragement from leaders and young people who believed in opening this milestone to the public,” the message said.

Gen Muhoozi emphasized that the initiative is not centered on personal recognition but on supporting those in need.

“This is not about personal celebration, fame, or recognition. It is about standing together to support vulnerable and underprivileged children—orphans, street children, and those lacking basic needs such as food, education, and shelter,” he said.

“Every step taken and every contribution made sends a powerful message to these children that they are not alone.”

Tayebwa also conveyed appreciation to the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), alongside organizers, security agencies, medical teams, volunteers, and partners who contributed to the success of the event.

He further commended leaders across political, religious, cultural, and corporate sectors for mobilizing communities in support of the initiative.

Gen Muhoozi also extended gratitude to President Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni, as well as family members, for their continued support.

Representing the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, State Minister for Defence in charge of Veteran Affairs Huda Oleru highlighted the broader significance of the run, noting that it promotes discipline, teamwork, and resilience—core values upheld by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).

She added that sports serve as a unifying force that transcends social and cultural differences while contributing to national development.

The minister also praised the UPDF for maintaining peace and stability, which she said enables citizens to participate in community-driven initiatives such as the charity run.

The event drew several senior government and military officials, including Henry Oryem Okello, Jim Muhwezi, Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune, Edith Buturo, Deputy CDF Sam Okiding, Commander Land Force Kayanja Muhanga, and Commander Reserve Force Charles Otema.

Also present were senior UPDF generals, including former Inspector General of Police Kale Kayihura, alongside officers from sister security agencies and leaders from religious, cultural, and political institutions.

Tayebwa commended the massive turnout, describing the run as a powerful demonstration of unity and shared commitment to supporting vulnerable communities.

Funds raised from the event are expected to support orphans and persons with disabilities, reinforcing what organizers describe as a growing national movement of generosity and hope.

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