Members of the Ghetto Structure on Sunday joined thousands of Ugandans at Kololo Independence Grounds for a national charity run held to mark the 52nd birthday of Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Held under the theme “Run for Charity, Run for Hope,” the event attracted participants from across the country, including political leaders, religious figures, security personnel and civilians, all in a shared mission to support orphans and persons with disabilities.
Led by Shafik Kalyango , the National Coordinator , the team started with a procession towards the Kololo Independence Grounds.
‘’We commend Gen Muhoozi for his continued role in safeguarding the country. The prevailing peace and stability enable Ugandans to participate in development-oriented activities such as the charity run. We are grateful that Gen. has been working with us because he loves the young people’’, Kalyango told reporters.
He said this is not just a celebration, but a national movement of generosity and hope.
“In a special way, I want to thank the Director of Crime Intelligence, AIGP Brig. Christopher Ddamulira, Maj and Maj. Emma Kutesa for bringing light into the ghetto,” Kalyango further urged the ghetto youth to embrace the four sectors of the economy in order to create wealth. He assured them that the government is ready to support them.
The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Thomas Tayebwa, officiated as Chief Runner and Chief Guest. He flagged off the run on behalf of Gen Muhoozi and delivered a message highlighting appreciation to Ugandans, organizers and participants for supporting the initiative.
In his message, Gen Muhoozi emphasized that the charity run reflects a strong spirit of solidarity and national responsibility. He commended the widespread participation from different regions, noting that the event has grown into a truly national activity that showcases unity across Uganda.
He also expressed gratitude to security agencies, volunteers and service providers for ensuring the smooth and secure execution of the event.
Representing the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon Huda Oleru underscored the importance of the run in promoting discipline, teamwork and resilience, values closely associated with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces.
Funds raised during the event are expected to support vulnerable groups, particularly orphans and persons with disabilities, reinforcing a national commitment to uplifting those in need.
Such initiatives continue to play a vital role in complementing government and community efforts aimed at improving the welfare of disadvantaged groups. By mobilising citizens around a common cause, the run reinforces the spirit of giving and shared responsibility.
The event was attended by several senior government and military officials, including Hon Okello Oryem, Hon Maj Gen (Rtd) Jim Muhwezi, Hon Haruna Kasolo, as well as top UPDF leadership and representatives from various institutions.
Beyond marking a birthday, the run stood out as a symbol of generosity, unity and hope, bringing together Ugandans from all walks of life in support of a common cause.
The Ghetto Structure in Uganda is a government-backed initiative spearheaded by President Yoweri Museveni and the Uganda Police Force (Crime Intelligence Directorate) to organize, skill, and empower urban youth, particularly in the Kampala Metropolitan Area. Shafik Kalyango serves as the National Coordinator for these Ghetto Structures.
Created around March 2023, it organizes youths across 216 ghetto zones in Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono into 12 distinct SACCOs (Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies).
Shafik Kalyango coordinates these groups to transition youth from informal, often volatile groupings, into disciplined, economically active, and politically aligned members.
The Initiative has received significant government funding to support income-generating activities. The initiative aims to align ghetto youth with the NRM government and reduce political violence. In January 2026, Shafik Kalyango won the election for Lord Councillor for Kampala Central Division, marking a major political milestone for the structure.
The government has provided, and continues to pledge, support in the form of vocational training, seed capital, and assets like motorcycles (Boda Bodas) to support local businesses.
Kalyango, as a leader, has often urged for the normalization of youth participation in national development, pushing back against the use of youth for political violence.