David GOMBE
Uganda came together to show solidarity as Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services for People with Disability in Uganda (CoRSU) held its second Annual Fundraising Walk. Over 1,500 participants, including families, children, corporate partners, cultural leaders, government officials, and community members, walked side by side to create opportunities for children with disabilities to live full, dignified, and independent lives.
The event featured two routes, a 10km and a 5km walk, each flagged off by distinguished leaders. The 10km category was officially launched by the Chief Guest Katikkiro of Buganda, who was represented by Owek. Noah Kiyimba, who stressed the importance of community solidarity and said, “When we walk together, we demonstrate that we are stronger than the barriers that divide us. Today’s walk serves as a reminder that children with disabilities are not defined by their limitations, but by their potential. Supporting them is a collective responsibility.”
The 5km category was flagged off by Capt. Mike Mukula, who praised CoRSU’s mission and the dedication of participants. “What we are doing here is a symbol of love, compassion, and national unity. CoRSU has proven that with the right support, children who have lost hope can live full lives. Let us continue to champion their cause.”
The Guest of Honour, The Katikiro of Buganda who was represented by Owek. Noah Kiyimba, also applauded CoRSU’s contribution to inclusive healthcare;” For nearly two decades, CoRSU has been a beacon of hope for children with disabilities and their families. Through corrective surgeries, prosthetic and orthotic services, and rehabilitation, CoRSU has restored mobility, independence, and dignity to tens of thousands of children. We continue to appeal to Government of Uganda through you Hon. Mike Mukula, to support CoRSU through affirmative action. Disability is very tricky, all of us can be affected. Let us join CoRSU and create impact. As Buganda Kingdom, we are in total support and we will continue to partner with CoRSU.” he said.
The Funds raised from this year’s walk will go directly towards providing corrective surgeries, prosthetic and orthotic devices, and rehabilitation services for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Additionally, the proceeds will support the establishment of a new specialised theatre at CoRSU to expand surgical capacity and reduce waiting times for critical operations.
Since its inception in 2006, CoRSU has carried out more than 70,000 life-changing surgeries, with an average of 5,246 surgeries and 12,500 therapy sessions performed annually. 8 out of every 10 surgeries are for children, reaffirming CoRSU’s mission to ensure that no child is denied care because of cost.
CoRSU’s Chief Executive Officer, Robert Ochai, emphasised the life-changing impact of the event: “The funds we raise today will go directly to providing corrective surgeries, prosthetics, orthotic devices, and rehabilitation services, especially for children who come from disadvantaged backgrounds and have nowhere else to turn. Because of your support, many children will take their first steps towards independence; they will return to school and to play and laugh free of fear and stigma.”
The Board President, Victor Odongo, concluded by recognising all who made the event possible:
“As we bring this event to a close, I extend my deepest gratitude to all of you, our sponsors, partners, participants, families, friends, and members of the media. Your support has made today a powerful statement of our shared commitment to breaking barriers and building a more inclusive Uganda.”
He further extended appreciation to the event’s generous sponsors: Fireworks Advertising, EMKA Foundation, Bank of Uganda, Vivo Energy, Finn Church Aid, Rapid Advisory, Crown Beverages (Nivana), Nation Media, Uganda Development Corporation (UDC), Pride Bank, Bank of Uganda, The Great Outdoors, National Drug Authority, Humanity and Inclusion, Centenary Bank, Buganda Kingdom, UEDCL, and ABSA Bank. “Thank you for your solidarity and commitment, and we hope to see you next year as we continue to raise awareness for children living with disabilities,” he added.
With 12.4% of Uganda’s population living with some form of disability, the walk underscored the urgent need for collaborative action between government, civil society, and the private sector.
As participants crossed the finish line, the atmosphere was filled with hope, joy, and determination. Parents walked hand in hand with their children, colleagues cheered alongside friends, and strangers became allies in a shared cause.
