Thousands of runners gathered on Sunday at Kololo Independence Grounds for the 2026 “Run for Charity, Run for Hope” event, organized by the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) to celebrate the 52nd birthday of Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
The charity run, which painted Kololo yellow, attracted a diverse crowd, including army generals, politicians, musicians, business leaders, and civil society organizations. Participants united in support of vulnerable and underprivileged children, including orphans, street children, and those lacking basic necessities such as food, education, and shelter.
The event was flagged off by Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, who represented Gen. Muhoozi.
In a speech delivered on his behalf, Gen. Muhoozi said the event had evolved from a private birthday celebration into a national movement that brings Ugandans together for a greater cause.
He noted that encouragement from leaders such as Frank Tumwebaze, Daudi Kabanda, Lillian Aber, and Andrew Mwenda, along with strong support from young people, inspired him to open the celebration to the public and transform it into a platform for unity, patriotism, and service.
Gen. Muhoozi thanked Ugandans for turning up in large numbers, emphasizing that the run is not about personal celebration, fame, or recognition, but about standing together to support children in need.
Among the participants were Deputy CDF Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, Gen. Kale Kayihura, Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga, businessman Sudhir Ruparelia, Minister Frank Tumwebaze, Lillian Aber, Andrew Mwenda, Pastor Aloysius Bugingo, and musicians Juliana Kanyomozi, Bebe Cool, and Eddy Kenzo, among others.
Although Gen. Muhoozi was expected to be the chief runner, he did not physically participate in the event for reasons that were not immediately disclosed.
