PHOTOS: President @KagutaMuseveni arrived at Kololo Independence Grounds a while ago for the Budget speech. He was received by VP @jessica_alupo Speaker @ObothOboth, Deputy @Thomas_Tayebwa, police chief, Abbas Byakagaba, PM @R_Nabbanja

I want to thank Mr.Moses Watasa, Commissioner for Information at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance for this article. Efforts to memorialise our difficult history and investment in sports will go a long way in supplementing other government programs for the youth.

I was honoured to represent my senior brother @mkainerugaba as the Chief Runner at his 52nd Birthday Run, as we ran for charity and hope. In the speech I delivered on his behalf, Gen. Muhoozi reflected on the journey of this event, from what was once a private celebration to what has now become a national movement that brings Ugandans together for a greater cause. He shared how, over the years, encouragement from leaders such as @FrankTumwebaze, @DaudiKabanda, @LillianAber, and @AndrewMwenda, among others, as well as from young people, inspired him to open up this milestone to the public, transforming it into a platform for unity, patriotism and service. He expressed deep gratitude to all Ugandans who turned up in large numbers, noting that their presence demonstrates the strength of our collective spirit. He said the run is not about personal celebration, fame, or recognition but about standing together to support vulnerable and underprivileged children—orphans, street children, and those lacking basic needs such as food, education, and shelter. He reminded us that every step taken and every contribution made sends a powerful message to these children: that they are not alone. Gen. Muhoozi also paid tribute to the Patriotic League of Uganda for their steadfast and selfless leadership, as well as to the organizers, security agencies, medical teams, volunteers, and all partners who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the event a success. He commended leaders across all sectors—political, religious, cultural, and corporate—for mobilizing communities and supporting this noble cause. Most importantly, he thanked @KagutaMuseveni and @JanetMuseveni, his wife and children, @Nyinancweende, Diana, Patience, and other family members who have been part of his upbringing and have offered him unwavering support. What a monumental event this has been! Running for charity and hope is one of the most meaningful ways we can uplift those in need. The funds raised through this initiative will have a real and lasting impact on vulnerable communities. Thank you, Gen. Muhoozi, for dedicating your birthday to causes that uplift the hopes of the underprivileged.

There are moments when words feel inadequate, and this is one. However, a tribute is warranted. Uganda has lost Ambassador Santa Mary Laker Kinyera, a towering figure in our Foreign Service (diplomatic) corps. A career diplomat of exceptional caliber @UgandaMFA. For all who had the privilege of knowing her or benefiting from her steadfast service, what set her apart was not only her professional excellence but her character: she was a protector and a beacon, someone who stood firmly for fairness and representation for every Ugandan, transcending affiliations, politics, or divisions. She dedicated nearly three decades to advancing Uganda's interests with unwavering integrity, clarity, and commitment. From her early roles shaping bilateral and regional integration in the Africa and Middle East Department, to serving as a key negotiator in the East African Community Treaty, to leading efforts on peace initiatives in the Horn of Africa through IGAD and the AU, she consistently placed Uganda's voice at the center of complex multilateral arenas. She was pivotal in the opening of Uganda's Embassy in Ankara as the first Chargé d’Affaires—and her time as Deputy Head of Mission in Washington, D.C., demonstrated her ability to build bridges across cultures and continents. In an often polarized world, she embodied the ideal of a solid bridge—connecting people, institutions, and nations with quiet strength, deep commitment, and genuine love for her country and its people. As a mentor and boss, she guided with wisdom and grounded professionalism, inspiring those around her to uphold the highest standards of service and humanity. Yet her legacy will endure in the fairer representation she helped secure for Uganda on the global stage, in the young diplomats she shaped, and in the countless lives touched by her principled leadership. May God strengthen us all, receive her in heavenly glory, and may her example continue to light the path for Uganda's future diplomats and leaders. Deepest condolences @StateHouseUg @okelloryem @Tybisa @richardkabonero @RobieKakonge_ @Nsababera_juju @adoniaayebare @CNmagambo @_ReaganC_B @MarvinNyanzi