Nnaabagereka, VP Alupo Lead Fundraising Run for Shs8bn Church Project

Vice President Jessica Alupo has praised Kabaka Ronald Mutebi for his inclusive development initiatives that benefit all Ugandans, citing programs like the Mwanyi Terimba (Coffee Truth) campaign that empower communities through coffee farming.

Alupo made the remarks on Saturday while joining Nnaabagereka Sylvia Nagginda at St. Stephen’s Church of Uganda in Kireka to flag off a charity run organized to support the completion of a commercial complex named in honour of the late Namasole Sarah Kisosonkole, mother to Kabaka Mutebi.

The event attracted church members, local residents, and dignitaries who took part in the run to support the church’s Shs8 billion project.

Prior to the race, the Vice President and Nnaabagereka toured the construction site to inspect ongoing works.

“I thank the Kabaka for initiating programs that develop Ugandans without discrimination,” Alupo said. “Such initiatives demonstrate leadership that is visionary and inclusive.”

She also lauded the Nnaabagereka for her longstanding partnership with religious and community institutions in promoting social and economic transformation.

“We appreciate the Nnaabagereka for standing with the church in its mission to promote sustainable development,” she added.

The campaign received a major boost from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who donated Shs 100 million towards the project.

Alupo herself contributed Shs 20 million. The commercial facility, once complete, is expected to generate income to support the church’s ministries and community outreach programs.

Rev. Esau Kimangi, the Parish Priest of St. Stephen’s Church, confirmed the project budget at Shs 8 billion, stressing its importance for the church’s future.

“With Shs 8 billion, the project will be completed and help boost the church’s capacity to serve the community,” Rev. Kimangi said.

Church Warden Ssalongo Joshua Kasibo commended the high-level support and emphasized the need for unity in realizing the project’s success.

“The success of this project depends on all of us coming together in love, faith, and shared vision,” Kasibo noted.

Named in honour of the late Namasole Sarah Kisosonkole, the building represents both a tribute to Buganda heritage and an investment in sustainable community development.

The initiative blends cultural legacy with economic resilience, ensuring that the Queen Mother’s memory continues to inspire future generations.

As the charity run ended, the atmosphere remained celebratory and hopeful, with participants expressing commitment to completing the project.

The event underscored the growing impact of collaboration between faith institutions, cultural leaders, and the state in driving grassroots transformation.