Kampala, Uganda: The Manager of the Office of the National Chairman (ONC) and Senior Presidential Advisor, Hajat Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye, Friday marked her son Jagenda Rayan’s 5th birthday with a heartfelt charity outreach to children living with disabilities in Kampala, as the Buganda Kingdom commemorated Buganda Children’s Day with strong calls for child protection and family unity.
The dual events highlighted a shared message, placing children at the centre of compassion, care, and national development.
Hajjat Namyalo, who chose to celebrate her son’s milestone by reaching out to vulnerable children, visited Kampala School for the Physically Handicapped in Mengo before extending the outreach to Support Disabled Children in Ggaba.
The charity drive included donation of assorted items, sharing of a birthday cake, and interactive sessions that brought joy and inclusion to dozens of children.
Speaking at Mengo, the ONC Chief Muzzukulu revealed that the initiative was inspired by her son’s own wish to celebrate with other children. “As he turns five, he wanted other children to feel the joy of the day. That is why we have come to share with them and let them know they are loved,” Namyalo said.
School administrators led by Ms Joy Mwesigwa described the visit as uplifting, noting that such engagements boost morale among children living with disabilities and reinforce their sense of belonging.
Namyalo also used the occasion to rally well-wishers and the wider community to support vulnerable groups, emphasizing that meaningful change begins with individual action. “Real change begins with all of us taking responsibility and showing compassion,” she said.
She further called on government to strengthen support systems for children with disabilities through inclusive policies, increased funding, and community-based programs.
Buganda Children’s Day spotlights child welfare
At Lubiri in Mengo, Buganda Kingdom marked Children’s Day under the theme of unity and child protection, with the Nnabagereka Sylvia Nagginda urging parents to take a more active role in safeguarding children’s well-being.
“Parents should promote unity among their children and fight anything that may cause emotional harm, such as violence in homes,” she said, emphasizing the importance of listening to children, addressing their concerns, and ensuring they grow up in safe and supportive environments.
The Nnabagereka also encouraged children to nurture their talents responsibly while respecting the rights of others and embracing strong moral values.
During the celebrations, children from different schools shared challenges affecting their lives, including domestic violence, exploitation, and violations of their rights.
The Minister for Social Development in Buganda, Hajjat Mariam Nasejje, together with other stakeholders, also addressed the gathering and echoed calls for stronger child protection systems and community responsibility in safeguarding children’s rights.
As Rayan turns five, his simple yet profound act of kindness stands as a reminder that meaningful change can begin with small, intentional acts of love, capable of inspiring communities and transforming lives.
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