Lira, Uganda | Lira City on Sunday joined other parts of Uganda in commemorating the 52nd birthday of Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, through a charity run that drew a strong public turnout despite short notice mobilisation.
The event, held at Lira City Mayor’s Garden where it both started and ended, attracted residents, local leaders, youth groups and women mobilisers who were praised for their active participation in the run, which also aimed at raising funds for vulnerable children, orphans and babies’ homes.
Lira City Resident City Commissioner Lawrence Egole said the high turnout reflected strong public interest and support, noting that earlier mobilisation would have attracted even larger numbers. He commended women mobilisers for their role in ensuring wide participation.
Egole further described Gen. Muhoozi as a patriotic leader with strong support in the Lango subregion, commending his contribution to professionalism in the UPDF, anti-corruption efforts, and promotion of peace and stability in Uganda and the region. He said the event also served as a platform for unity, solidarity, and community engagement through charity.
According to organisers, funds were raised through the purchase of running kits, though the total amount collected is yet to be consolidated. Contributions included UGX 10 million worth of kits from Health Minister and also the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) Coordinator for Lango Subregion Jane Ruth Aceng and additional T-shirts donated by Uganda’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Djibouti Rebecca Otengo and other partners.
Lira City Mayor Sam Atul energised participants with chants of “We are the MK,” rallying residents to celebrate the occasion. He acknowledged national leadership, including President Yoweri Museveni, Gen. Muhoozi, and thanked organisers for successfully coordinating the event. Atul noted that he shares the same age milestone of 52 years with Muhoozi, hinting at possible future joint celebrations.
Bala Town Council Mayor-elect Maros Atine, also known as Professor Maros, praised the initiative, describing Muhoozi as a disciplined military officer and expressing admiration for his leadership. He also suggested that the charity run be institutionalised as an annual national event, citing its health and social benefits.
Lira City Youth Councilor-elect Musa Opio said the run promoted fitness, youth engagement, and unity across the Lango subregion. He appreciated government efforts in maintaining peace and security, which he said made such national gatherings possible, and thanked key stakeholders for their support.
Similar runs were held in Kampala and other towns under the national theme “Run for Charity, Run for Hope,” focusing on supporting vulnerable children and babies’ homes.
Separately, a commentary by Alebtong Deputy Resident District Commissioner Mathias Lutwama described Muhoozi as a strategic military figure with a role in regional security and institutional reform, citing his leadership roles within the UPDF and broader security operations.
The main national run was held at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, where thousands participated in a 10-kilometre race led by Muhoozi, marking his 52nd birthday celebrations and fundraising drive for child welfare programmes across Uganda.
