Faith Meets Fitness: ONC’s Namyalo Leads Thousands In Ramadhan Charity Run To Support Vulnerable Families

By Frank Kamuntu

The usually calm grounds of Herman Padel Centre in Nsambya burst into colour and energy on Sunday morning as hundreds of runners, clerics, youth leaders and community members gathered for the third edition of the Ramadhan Charity Run 2026, a community initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable families ahead of the holy month of Ramadhan.

At the centre of the event was Senior Presidential Advisor and Head of the Office of the National Chairman, Hadijah Namyalo Uzeiye, who not only flagged off the race but also took part as Chief Runner, setting the pace alongside Counsel Usaama Ssebuufu.

Addressing participants before the run, Namyalo urged Ugandans to view Ramadhan as more than a period of fasting, emphasizing compassion and collective responsibility toward families struggling to afford daily meals.

“Unity across faiths is what strengthens communities,” she said, calling on citizens to support charitable initiatives that ensure vulnerable households can break their fast with dignity.

A Run Driven By Purpose

The charity run, organised by a coalition of Muslim youth organisations including Allied Muslim Youth Uganda, Dusmans Daawa Initiative and Taniim, Hijja & Umrah, seeks to raise funds for food packages and essential supplies for disadvantaged families during Ramadhan.

Organising committee chairperson Matovu Faizo praised participants for turning up in large numbers and applauded Namyalo’s hands-on involvement.

“When leaders show up physically and run with us, it gives this cause credibility and energy,” he said.

Contributions & Community Support

Counsel Ssebuufu, who donated five million shillings toward the initiative, thanked both Muslims and non-Muslims for participating, describing the event as a reminder that public leadership should serve ordinary citizens rather than burden them.

Without naming individuals, he criticised leaders who misuse public offices to exploit communities, contrasting such actions with initiatives focused on uplifting the vulnerable.

Businessman Mr. Wee also pledged support, contributing 7.5 million shillings to the cause, while Namyalo announced a personal donation of ten million shillings and additional backing from her office.

She further revealed plans to introduce Islamic insurance services in Uganda during mid-Ramadhan, describing the initiative as part of broader efforts to strengthen economic security within Muslim communities.

“Both the poor and the rich need each other,” she said. “Charity is not about superiority; it is about responsibility.”

Beyond The Finish Line

Namyalo also used the gathering to advise young women to make thoughtful life choices, encouraging patience and values over material pressure.

After completing the symbolic run, she awarded medals and certificates to outstanding participants before receiving similar recognition for her role as Chief Runner. The Office of the National Chairman, represented by Namyalo and communications head Moses Kintu, was also honoured for institutional support.

Beyond speeches and donations, the event carried a deeper message across Kampala — that faith must translate into action. In a city where many families quietly struggle to put food on the table, the Ramadhan Charity Run stood as both a fundraiser and a public declaration of unity, generosity and service to humanity.