Kampala, Uganda: More than Shs1 billion has been raised from the 52nd birthday charity run of Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, following a massive turnout at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala.
The figure, announced on Tuesday shortly after the April 26 event, underscores the scale of mobilisation and financial backing behind the “Run for Hope” initiative, which brought together public participation, corporate sponsorship, and high-profile contributions into one of the country’s biggest charity drives.
“I’m happy to announce that we raised over 1 billion Uganda shillings during the birthday run. I shall soon announce the charities we shall support and handover cheques to them. Thank you all for your support,” Muhoozi said in a post on X.
The run attracted thousands of participants across multiple race categories, with crowds comprising youth, security personnel, corporate teams, and political mobilisers, reflecting the growing reach of the annual event beyond a personal celebration into a national mobilisation platform.
The event drew significant political and institutional presence, with Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa representing Muhoozi as the chief guest, alongside ministers, senior government officials, and former security chiefs. Among those in attendance were former Inspector General of Police Kale Kayihura and State Minister Henry Okello Oryem.
City businessman Sudhir Ruparelia emerged as one of the standout contributors after injecting Shs100 million into the fundraising drive while also participating in the run. His contribution significantly boosted the overall total and drew attention both at the event and on social media, where images of him running alongside participants circulated widely.
Muhoozi praised Sudhir’s support, acknowledging both his financial contribution and presence at the run. “I thank our beloved elder Mr Sudhir Ruparelia for attending the birthday run. He is the richest and smartest businessman in Africa, and his support means a lot to this cause,” he said.
Part of the funds raised is expected to support health-related causes, with Muhoozi indicating that contributions will go towards initiatives such as the Uganda Child Cancer Foundation, which is fundraising to construct a hostel for patients.
The run was organised under the banner of the Patriotic League of Uganda with the theme “Run for Charity, Run for Hope,” drawing participation from business leaders, entertainers, and organised groups across the country.
Mobilisation efforts extended beyond Kampala in the days leading up to the event, with teams distributing running kits and rallying participants nationwide, contributing to the strong turnout witnessed at Kololo.
High-profile attendees, including former Vice President Edward Ssekandi, added to the stature of the event, with visible interactions among political and business elites reinforcing the event’s growing influence.
The scale of participation, combined with strong financial contributions from individuals and institutions, pushed the fundraising total past the Shs1 billion mark, positioning the 2026 edition among the most successful charity runs in Uganda in recent years.
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